The memorial preserves the memory of the only Nazi concentration camp in France and offers exhibitions, guided tours, and events to keep its history alive.

The KL Natzweiler was built in France, in Alsace, which was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1941. Between 1941 and 1945, 50,000 prisoners were detained at the Natzweiler concentration camp and its 53 subcamps: political opponents, resistance members, forced labourers, Jews, gypsies, homosexuals, criminals, social outcasts, etc.

Detention conditions were exceptionally harsh. The extreme mountain climate, devouring hunger, insufficient hygiene, constant violence and exhausting work were all factors that accounted for the 40% mortality rate.