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Museum · Mechelen, Antuérpia
Kazerne Dossin
Memorial and museum about the Holocaust in Belgium, beside the former barracks from which more than 25,000 Jews and 351 Roma and Sinti were deported between 1942 and 1944.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kazerne Dossin
During World War II, the Nazis turned the Dossin barracks in Mechelen into a transit camp. Between 1942 and 1944, 25,257 Jews and 351 Roma and Sinti passed through there before being deported, most to Auschwitz. Few returned.
The former barracks today house the memorial, open to the public, as well as apartments and the municipal archives. Across the street is the museum, in a brick building designed by architect bOb Van Reeth.
The permanent exhibition tells the story of the barracks and the Holocaust in Belgium with photographs, documents, and personal stories. The route links that past to themes such as racism, exclusion, and human rights. A wall of portraits of the deported people is one of the most powerful parts of the visit.
It is an intense visit that requires time and silence. The museum is also a documentation and research center on the subject.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours for the permanent exhibition and the memorial.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, without rushing. This is not a visit to squeeze into the last minutes of the day. The museum is not open every day: check before you go.
How to get there
It is on Goswin de Stassartstraat, about 600 metres from the Grote Markt, roughly an 8-minute walk. From Mechelen station it’s about a 25-minute walk or reachable by local bus.
Tip
Start with the museum and finish at the memorial in the former barracks across the street. The content is heavy; consider this before bringing small children.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kazerne Dossin
What happened at the Kazerne Dossin?
Between 1942 and 1944 the barracks served as a Nazi transit camp. From there more than 25,000 Jews and 351 Roma and Sinti were deported, most to Auschwitz.
Is the museum suitable for children?
The subject is heavy. Assess the children's age and sensitivity before visiting.
What is housed in the former barracks?
The memorial, open to the public, as well as apartments and the municipal archive. The museum is in the building opposite.