Like a modern-day stadium, the Centennial Hall was used by all who aimed to attract large audiences: from Adolf Hitler to Marlene Dietrich to Pope John Paul II. It still functions as a concert hall and sports arena. I felt a bit awkward at first to visit a site like this, but its historic and architectural value is recognized by more than WH spotters alone. For an entrance fee of 7 zloty you're allowed to have a look around and watch a video. I was joined by several groups of elderly German tourists, probably on a tour of remembrance in this former German town.

The core zone of the WHS also includes the exhibition grounds around the Hall. There's a square leading up to the hall that is modelled after a classical forum. A nice place to sit and relax for a while. There's the Four Dome Pavillion too, like mini-versions of the dome of the Hall itself. The large concrete pergola that surrounds a pond at the moment is in the process of being restored.