Bergen-Belsen was originally used as a Nazi POW camp. As the war accelerated, and allied troops gained ground in Europe, thousands of prisoners were brought to Bergen-Belsen from other camps. While there were not any gas chambers at the camp, the living conditions were horrible, especially in the later years of the war, as overcrowding and lack of food caused thousands to perish from hunger and disease. Anne Frank is believed to have died here. An estimated 50,000 people were killed at Bergen-Belsen, many even after liberation. Little remains at the site today, as much of the camp was burned to the ground to prevent the spread of disease. There are several marked mass graves, a small museum featuring clothing and valuables taken from prisoners, and several exhibits of Nazi documents. A large stone memorial stands, honoring those who died.
