Colditz Castle, designated Oflag IV-C during World War II, was a notorious German prisoner-of-war camp that housed Allied officers. Located in the small town of Colditz in Saxony, Germany, the castle gained a reputation as an escape-proof fortress, although numerous escape attempts were made.
The castle’s reputation as a high-security prison led to the transfer of prisoners who had a history of escape attempts from other camps. Despite the challenges, Colditz gained notoriety for successful escapes, with prisoners employing creative methods such as tunnels, hidden compartments, and impersonation of German officers.
The experiences of the prisoners at Colditz were later documented in books and films, highlighting both the hardships and resilience of those held captive. Today, Colditz Castle stands as a historical site, and its wartime history is remembered as a testament to the determination and ingenuity of Allied prisoners of war during World War II.
Photo: A group of Polish POWs photographed at Colditz (Oflag IV-c).
Date: 1939.
