Menin Gate reopens after two years of renovation work in presence of Princess Anne

The reopening of Menin Gate in Ypres following a two year renovation project was attended by Princess Anne of Great Britain and Princess Claire of Belgium.

As a memorial to more than 54,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers missing in action in West Flanders during World War One, the historical site is a beacon for tourists. Traffic is halted every evening at 20.00, when the Last Post is sounded with crowds solemnly in attendance.

Erected in 1927, the monolithic building on the ramparts of the rebuilt city has undergone major structural repairs. The €6m renovation project, launched in 2023, also included the installation of modern and energy-efficient lighting and a green roof.

It was funded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), with support from Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom, as well as a €1.6m grant from the Flemish government and €300,000 contribution by the city of Ypres.

The reopening ceremony on Monday included a procession through Ypres, bearing a torch for peace.

Princess Claire and Princess Anne unveiled a Unesco stone as the Menin Gate was inscribed on the organisation's World Heritage List in 2023.

British Ambassador to Belgium Anne Sherriff was also in attendance. “Walking behind the Torch for Peace through Ypres and hearing the Last Post under the newly restored arch was both moving and humbling. The new ‘living roof’ and the unveiling of the Unesco plaque underline how this site continues to evolve,” she said in a statement.

Photo: CWGC ©Eric Compernolle