Walimskie Drifts (pl. Sztolnie Walimskie)
History and Purpose of the Walimskie Drifts
The Walimskie Drifts, also known as the Rzeczka Complex, are part of the Nazi project "Riese" ("Giant"), built towards the end of World War II. This complex, located in the Owl Mountains, was constructed by prisoners and forced laborers who worked under inhumane conditions.
Today, it is one of three tourist-accessible sites related to the "Riese" project and the only one accessible for wheelchair users. Unfortunately, the nearby underground tunnels of Osówka and Włodarz do not provide access for people with disabilities.
Practical Information for Visitors
Visiting the Walimskie Drifts does not require prior reservation, though visitors should be prepared for a possible wait of up to several dozen minutes. The site can only be explored with a guide, and the tour lasts about an hour. Due to a constant temperature of 5-7°C, warm clothing is recommended year-round.
Wheelchair users arriving at the parking area should contact site staff by phone or notify the ticket office. Once notified, staff will open a special barrier located about 80 meters from the tunnel entrance, allowing direct access to the starting point of the tour. The route to the barrier is steep and unpaved, so it is advisable to request vehicle access directly to the tunnel.
Wheelchair-Accessible Touring
The interior corridors of the Walimskie Drifts are generally damp, with some risk of getting dirty, and parts of the ground are uneven, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. The site offers considerable accessibility, with only one area requiring stair access and without a ramp. Other corridors and chambers are wide and spacious.
Touring the Rzeczka Complex is engaging and flows smoothly, likely due to the extensive knowledge of the guides and the use of sound and visual effects in certain areas. The life-sized V2 rocket model is also an impressive feature. Personally, the last chamber in the third tunnel left the greatest impression on me. The realism of this space vividly underscores the harsh labor endured by the prisoners of the time.
The Walimskie Drifts and Historical Significance
For history enthusiasts, the Walimskie Drifts represent a unique monument, serving as a reminder of the brutal times of World War II. However, it is not a site for those interested in conspiracy theories or the so-called "golden train." With 5,000 lives lost within these tunnels, respect for the victims compelled me to avoid taking photos, except for the V2 rocket model.
Places like the Walimskie Drifts serve as a reminder of the atrocities of history, fostering respect and reflection on the past. It is important that this historical legacy is also accessible to people with disabilities, allowing a wide range of visitors to connect with this heritage.
