Belgium’s In Flanders Fields Museum Sees Visitor Drop

In Ieper, Belgium, the In Flanders Fields Museum experienced a sharp decline in visitors after a peak between 2014 and 2018. The museum, dedicated to World War I, received 161,000 visitors last year—almost 20% below its average of 200,000 before the centennial commemorations. Director Stephen Lodewyck attributes this decrease primarily to fewer British tourists, impacted by pandemic-related tour operator failures and current economic difficulties in the UK.

The museum currently hosts “Ontheemd,” an exhibit featuring poignant stories of Belgian refugees, illustrated with colorful artwork and personal objects. One display includes knitted socks made with bicycle spokes by a young girl in exile. The exhibit also highlights the fates of families torn apart and the lasting trauma of displacement.

Lodewyck notes the museum’s current exhibit is performing slightly above projections for 2024-2028. In September 2028, the museum will close for eight months to overhaul its permanent displays, a project unrelated to the recent visitor decline. The museum plans to expand its focus to include the impact of both World Wars while remaining centered on the First World War.