Cowra Prisoner of War Camp
The Cowra Prisoner of War Camp was established in 1941 in Cowra, New South Wales, Australia, during World War II. It was designed to hold Japanese and Italian prisoners of war, with a capacity for around 4,000 detainees. The camp was notable for its large, sprawling layout and high-security measures.
In August 1944, the camp became the site of a significant event known as the Cowra Breakout, where over 500 Japanese prisoners attempted to escape. This incident resulted in a tragic confrontation, leading to the deaths of many prisoners and Australian soldiers. The camp was closed in 1947, and today, it serves as a historical site.