Site John McCrae
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the serene landscape of Flanders, Belgium, lies a poignant reminder of the past—Site John McCrae. This memorial is dedicated to the Canadian physician, poet, and soldier Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, who penned the iconic war poem "In Flanders Fields." The poem, written amidst the horrors of World War I, has become a symbol of remembrance for soldiers who have died in conflict.
Site John McCrae is situated near the town of Ypres, a region that bore witness to some of the most intense battles of the Great War. The memorial itself is located close to the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station, where McCrae served as a surgeon and where he was inspired to write his famous verse. The location provides visitors with a profound sense of connection to the history that unfolded in these fields.
Visitors to the site will find a bronze bust of John McCrae, looking out over the poppy-covered fields that once were the backdrop to relentless warfare. Information panels recount the story of McCrae's life and the circumstances that led to the creation of his enduring poem. The presence of poppies, a symbol of remembrance derived from the poem's imagery, adds a layer of somber reflection to the atmosphere of the site.
Vlaanderen
Site John McCrae – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Essex Farm Cemetery, Duhallow ADS Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery, White House Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery, Ypres Town Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery and Extension.