Ypres

A lot of expats we talk to like Belgium because it is right in the center of western Europe - so easy to get to other countries. Unfortunately, that same centralness is the reason why Belgium found itself in heavy conflict during both world wars. On Sunday, we went to Ypres, where the heaviest, longest fighting of WWI occured. The town was practically wiped out, surrounded by trenches and fighting. It has now been rebuilt and it is very nice. We came mostly for the museum about WWI, which we toured while Eliot slept.







Here is an arch the British constructed after the war. Inside, the names of soldiers who were known to die here but were never found are inscribed. I have a picture up of some names in the web album I will post.
The flag for the excellent museum about WWI in Ypres.
After the heaviness of the museum, it was great to enjoy a walk on the old town ramparts on a sunny late afternoon.