Tourism campaign looks at past and present of reflection on war
A new tourism campaign in West Flanders will focus on contemporary reflection on the First World War. It marks the anniversaries of major memorials in the area, including the Menin Gate, the Last Post ceremony and Tyne Cot cemetery.
The Westhoek is one of the most important destinations for commemorative tourism and is inextricably linked to the memory of the First World War. Almost 365,000 people visited its museums, Unesco-recognised cemeteries and battle sites last year, with half of them coming from abroad. The largest number of foreign visitors come from the UK.
“Flanders stands out internationally with its commemorative tourism. With Monuments & Moments, we’re highlighting the courage and the valiant struggle of our ancestors for peace,” said Hans Bonte, Flemish minister for Tourism.
“At times of new world conflicts, it’s hugely important that we pay extra attention to them and that we preserve these places and stories in the future too. By continuing to invest in these historic places, we keep the stories alive for future generations.”
The campaign looks back to 1927-1928, when numerous monuments in the Westhoek were inaugurated. It also places more than 100 years of commemoration in a contemporary framework and invites visitors to reflect on war, loss, peace and remembrance today through a series of exhibitions and other experiences.
"By continuing to invest in these historic places, we keep the stories alive for future generations"
Tourism bodies Westtoer and Visit Flanders are working together on the theme year, which will run from 16 June 2027 to 11 November 2028. Broader investment plans include the renovation of the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres.
Monuments & Moments brings together symbolic events, including:
100 years of the Tyne Cot Memorial - 19 June 2027
100 years of the Menin Gate - 24 July 2027
The 100th Yser Pilgrimage - 5 July 2027
100 years of the Last Post - 2 July 2028
90 years of the Albert I monument - 24 July 2028
100 years of the Trench of Death - 2 October 2027
109 & 110 years of the Armistice - 2027 and 2028
#FlandersNewsService | Visitors to the Menin Gate memorial in Ypres © PHOTO ARTERRA
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