Diksmuide, Belgium

Diksmuide is a picturesque Belgian city rich in history located in West Flanders along the Yser River. Affectionately known as the “Butter City” due to its centuries-old dairy tradition, it is today most famous as a key site of remembrance from the First World War.

One of the city’s most iconic sites is the Yser Tower (IJzertoren), a striking peace monument and World War I museum offering panoramic views of the surrounding polders and insights into the historic Battle of the Yser.

Just outside the town center lies the Trench of Death (Dodengang), a preserved complex of trenches along the river where Belgian soldiers bravely held the front line under extreme conditions.

In the heart of the city, the restored Town Hall and Belfry stand as a testament to resilience. The belfry, complete with a 30-bell carillon, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nearby, the Vladslo German War Cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of peace, housing Käthe Kollwitz’s famous moving sculpture, The Mourning Parents.