It’s not hard to miss the Holocaust Memorial’s 42-foot outstretched arm and hand emerging from the water lily strewn reflection pool. But most onlookers don’t realize there’s more to this ornately carved bronze sculpture depicting the horrors of Jewish victims during the Third Reich.

If you take the time to peek behind it, the whole nightmare unfolds through historical accounts, photos and maps, as well as a narrow passage whose physical transformation further demonstrates the tragedy. Once engaged, hours can go by before you notice.