Maps

Scope and content

The sub-collection 6.2.2 Maps comprises all map material as well as diagrams and lists which were either produced by the predecessor organisations of the Arolsen Archives themselves or acquired from other sources.

The collection can be roughly divided into thematic and general maps. The thematic maps relate specifically to the focal points of the Arolsen Archives and include concentration camps, persecution, forced labour, displaced persons and also the organisation of the Third Reich.
For the concentration camps there are maps, which were produced at ITS, showing the individual branch camps. In addition, there are sketches, drawings and ground plans of the individual camps as well as of buildings, often from the war period itself. Furthermore, there are maps showing the routes of the death marches as well as cemetery plans with graves of concentration camp prisoners or forced labourers.
Detailed maps exist for UNRRA's post-war operations. All DP camps are listed here. There are also detailed diagrams showing the course of search operations and the processing of search requests.

The general part includes all maps from all over the world, although European maps still represent the vast majority. The maps of the Military Geographic Institute in Vienna, which reflect the status quo of 1939, with the main focus on Eastern Europe, should be emphasised. Furthermore, map series of the US Army and the National Geographic Institute in Paris are included.