Three kilometres from Auschwitz, Birkenau Camp (also known as "Auschwitz II") was built in 1941. It was part of the complex of extermination camps. The extent of the camp can be gauged from the platform above the former SS lookout tower. To the right are the former railway, a few wood and brick barracks, and the ruins of the crematorium and the gas chambers. A place of horror and commemoration.