The colossal building complex in Prora, on the island of Rügen, Germany, was originally constructed by the Nazis between 1936 and 1939. Planned by the Third Reich as part of their "Strength Through Joy" (Kraft durch Freude, KdF) program, the facility was designed to house and entertain 20,000 holidaymakers, showcasing the regime's intent to bolster public morale and provide leisure to the working class.

The design, which features a stark, linear architectural style, stretches approximately 4.5 kilometers along the Baltic Sea coastline, consisting of eight identical buildings. However, the outbreak of World War II halted its completion, and the complex was never used for its intended purpose as a holiday resort.

During the war, the building served various military roles, including housing for refugees and later as a military hospital. After the war, it was used by the East German military and, following German reunification, it was largely abandoned and fell into disrepair.

In recent years, parts of the complex have been redeveloped. Some blocks have been transformed into modern apartments, a hostel, and hotels, capitalizing on the historical significance and scenic location of the buildings. The redevelopment has sparked debate about how to best utilize and preserve the complex, which serves as a stark reminder of Germany's totalitarian past while also being a significant architectural and historical landmark.