2018 marks the 100th anniversary of the World War I, and Flanders plays a major role in the commemorations that come with this important anniversary. The region – the towns of Ypres and Passendale in particular – was the scene of some of the biggest battles of that period in history.

What’s more, Flanders is firmly rooted in the symbolism surrounding World War I. To give just one example: ever since their mention in the now-famous war poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ by Canadian lieutenant-colonel John McCrae, the poppies that grew on Flanders’ battlefields have turned into a worldwide symbol of remembrance.

But war isn’t the only focus. “From 2018 to 2020, Flanders will showcase its golden age with a series of events and art exhibitions devoted to the likes of Bruegel, Rubens and van Dyck,” National Geographic Traveller writes on its website.

In addition, as the magazine doesn’t fail to point out, the DIVA Home of Diamonds will be unveiled in Antwerp – one Flanders’ largest cities and one of the world’s main diamond trade centers – in May 2018. The new museum will display a dazzling collection of gems, jewelry and goldsmithery.