Step inside this majestic medieval trading center to tour a museum dedicated to the World War I history of Ypres.
In the Middle Ages, the Cloth Hall (Lakenhalle) was among Europe’s most prominent commercial sites for clothing trades. However, this early 14th-century building is not as old as it looks. The hall was destroyed during World War I and has since been painstakingly restored to match its original splendor.
One of the architectural highlights of this Gothic structure is its 230-feet (70-meter) belfry, which was used as a watchtower for several centuries. Climb the steps to the top for the gorgeous views.
For many years, cats were hurtled from this tower to their death. The real reason is not known however, some say it was a form of pest control and others because the animals were thought to be associated with black magic. Today, on the second Sunday of May, cats are celebrated with the Festival of Cats. The fiesta features a parade and the sight of toy cats being thrown from the bell tower.
Wander through the Cloth Hall's first floor halls where goods used to be stored and sold. Head up to the second floor for the In Flanders Fields Museum, which covers aspects of World War I history. In the Donkerpoort passage near the museum's entrance is a large shell fired onto Ypres by a German gun.
After you have paid the admission fee for the museum, browse artifacts and interactive exhibits to learn about World War I battles in the Flanders region. Read and hear the personal stories of individuals caught up in the war.
During your visit to the Cloth Hall, you may hear sonorous melodies coming from the belfry. The tower has a carillon of 49 bells which chime several times during the day.
The Cloth Hall is just to the west of the Kasteelgracht moat in the center of Ypres. Many bus stops are dotted around the busy area and you can take the train to Station Ieper, a 10-minute walk west of the site. Nearby landmarks include St. Martin’s Cathedral and Astrid Park. Parking is available, for a fee, on the streets surrounding the hall.
