The enigma of holocaust sites as tourist attractions - the case of Buchenwald

Abstract

While many would see visitation to a concentration camp as ghoulish in the extreme, the phenomenon of dark tourism is undeniable. To analyse such sites as tourist attractions presents obvious problems, not the least being the necessity for ethical considerations. This article considers the case of Buchenwald Concentration Camp, which has a memorial site, some extant buildings and an interpretation centre. A brief account of the history of the camp from its opening up to the present day is given. The issue of revisionism in a changing and revolutionary political climate is considered and conclusions are drawn which are relevant to other holocaust sites. An analysis is provided, covering the perspectives of both tourism in general and visitor attractions in particular. The implications of this analysis of Buchenwald for other historical sites are highlighted.