Learn about the horrific history of Camp Vught, the only official SS-run concentration camp in Nazi-occupied, but unannexed, northwestern Europe during World War II. Today the site serves as a memorial center where the brutal system of oppression and dehumanization of persecuted groups is remembered, explored and made tangible. A place that holds a significant and sobering place in Dutch World War II history.
Only TU/e students, PhD’s and EngD’s can join. Registration is required. See information below.
From its construction in 1942 until its evacuation in September 1944, Konzentrationslager Herzogenbusch, as the Germans called it, served as a prison, labor camp, and transit camp. More than 31,000 people were imprisoned here, some for short stays, others for longer periods. Hundreds died from starvation, exhaustion, disease, or execution. For thousands of Jews, Camp Vught became the gateway to the extermination camps.
Today, the Memorial Center stands on the preserved grounds of the former camp. It serves as a memorial, museum, and educational center, reminding visitors that systems of oppression and dehumanization are not just historical, they continue to exist in the world today.
May 4th is the National Day of Remembrance in the Netherlands, honoring all victims of war. On 5 May, we celebrate freedom and the country’s liberation in 1945. This excursion offers a chance to observe these commemorative days by visitingone of the most significant WWII sites in Dutch history.
Program
- Start time: 10:00 AM (unless otherwise communicated)
- Meeting point: NS train station Vught
- Walk: A walk (approx. 3 km / 45 min) through the Vughtse Heide to Camp Vught National Memorial
- Guided tour: An English-language tour around the former campgrounds (outdoor)
- Visit: Explore Barracks 1B and the permanent exhibition inside the memorial center.
Optional: Around 15:30 (subject to change), we visit the former execution site before heading back to Vught station via the Vughtse Heide. You may also choose to stay longer at the memorial center.
You’ll receive the latest program details by e-mail no later than Tuesday, April 29.
Questions? Email us via studium.generale@tue.nl.
Food & drinks
After the guided tour, around 12:30, there’s time for lunch. You can grab a bite (at your own expense) at the museum café, or bring your own..
Registration
Only TU/e students, PhDs and EngDs can join this excursion. Participation requires a ticket reservation using your TU/e email address. Reserve your student ticket via the black “order” button on this page. Tickets are limited. Only reserve if you are sure you can join.
Deadline for reservation: Monday 28 April. Keep an eye on your inbox for updates after registering.
SG & USE/ITEC registration
Have your student card scanned by a Studium Generale member on-site.
More information about SG & USE/ITEC can be found here.