Trace the roots of origin of Ypres right from its medieval history on this live-streamed Online Experience. We will begin from the spot where the first count of Flanders built a settlement and a small chapel; on the same spot today stands the gigantic St Maartens Cathedral. Your guide will tell you how the city got its name while we walk to the Market Square with its magnificent Cloth Hall, which is one of the largest civil buildings in Europe. 

As we walk you through the centre, you will notice the medieval character of the city, but nothing is further from the truth! Ypres was the battleground between the French and German during World War 1; the city was completely destroyed and all that was left were ruins. It took a while for the people of Ypres to rebuild everything. We will hence see the reconstructed city, almost exactly as it was be the war! 

We will have a look at some interesting characteristics of the reconstruction and learn about the history and significance of Menin Gate, a British Memorial Monument built to commemorate the 55,000 soldiers who went missing during the war and never got a proper burial in a grave. Over the past 80 years till today, people from all over the world come to the Menin gate to listen to the Last Post, bugle pipes blasting away single evening at 20h00, to remember not only the missing soldiers, but also those who found a resting place around the hills of Ypres.

Your guide will tell you may more such interesting and historical anecdotes during our tour. For instance, did you know Ypres is also called 'The city of Cats'? Join this tour to know more!