Ypres Menin Gate restoration: Last Post moves for the first time in 100 years

The renovation of the Menin Gate will start on Monday. The entire building is hidden behind large canvases for two years. Cyclists and pedestrians will still be able to pass through, but car traffic will only be able to travel towards the city.

“For the safety of the surrounding area and the people who work here, there will be a need to close off the building at limited times,” said Sarah Camerlynck of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. “The first time it happens is May 15. Then it will be completely closed to car traffic until May 25.”

Event adjustments

In the coming years, the city will work out adjustments for events such as the Kattentstoet and Gent-Wevelgem. The walls with names are hidden from view. The War Graves Commission is coming up with a virtual alternative in the visitor center next to the Menin Gate.

“Here, people will be able to virtually look up names on one of our resources available in the information center,” says Camerlynck. “In the information center there is also the exhibition”Whitnesses in The Landscape’wherever the Menin Gate and explain the project.

Last Post is moving

The daily Last Post ceremony and commemorations will continue. But for the first time in 100 years, the buglers and the public will stand next to, not under, the Menin Gate.

The restoration will cost more than 4 million euros. Flanders pays 1.6 million euros and Ypres 300,000 euros.