Mother Canada mourning sculpture at Vimy MemorialMother Canada mourning sculpture at Vimy Memorial
©Mother Canada mourning sculpture at Vimy Memorial|Sarah Roynette / Lens Tourisme

A Sacred Place on Vimy Ridge

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  4. The Vimy Memorial – Where Stone Speaks of Sacrifice

In northern France, on a quiet ridge scarred by war and softened by pine trees, stands one of Canada’s most powerful symbols: the Canadian National Vimy Memorial. It rises from the earth like a solemn prayer — tall, pale, and deeply moving.

More than a monument, it’s a place of remembrance. Here, 11,285 names are engraved in stone — those of Canadian soldiers who died in France during the First World War and have no known grave. Their stories echo through every carved figure, every line of the stone.

This site is one of the 139 funerary and memorial sites of the Western Front of the First World War inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2023

Getting there

Why Vimy? Why Here?

In April 1917, Canadian troops fought together for the first time as a unified corps — and won a crucial battle at Vimy Ridge. The victory came at great cost but marked a turning point in the war and in Canada’s national story. Many believe this is where modern Canada was born — not in Ottawa, but in the trenches of northern France.

Today, the memorial stands not just to mark a battlefield, but to honour all who served and suffered. It is a national gesture — of sorrow, gratitude, and unity.

Close-up of Vimy’s carved figures — grief in stoneClose-up of Vimy’s carved figures — grief in stone
©Close-up of Vimy’s carved figures — grief in stone|Samuel Dhote
Panorama of Vimy Ridge battlefield with grazing sheepPanorama of Vimy Ridge battlefield with grazing sheep
©Panorama of Vimy Ridge battlefield with grazing sheep|Pauline Roches

    What You'll Experience on Site

    The Memorial Itself

    Two towering pylons reach skyward, representing Canada and France. At their base, solemn sculptures tell stories of mourning, hope, and peace. One figure stands apart: a mourning woman known as “Mother Canada”. Her head is bowed. Her grief is silent — but profound.

    All around, names are etched in limestone. Every one tells a story left unfinished.

    Two towering pylons reach skyward, representing Canada and France Of Canadian National Vimy MemorialTwo towering pylons reach skyward, representing Canada and France Of Canadian National Vimy Memorial
    ©Two towering pylons reach skyward, representing Canada and France Of Canadian National Vimy Memorial|Olivier Duhamel / Lens Tourisme

      The surrounding landscape, once shattered by shells, now feels calm. But look closer — the scars remain. Preserved trenches, mine craters, and artillery positions offer a glimpse into life on the front line.

      And then there are the sheep. They graze freely across the grass, helping maintain safety by avoiding areas still riddled with unexploded ordnance. Peaceful, yet practical — like the land itself, adapting while remembering.

      Preserved WW1 trenches on Vimy RidgePreserved WW1 trenches on Vimy Ridge
      ©Preserved WW1 trenches on Vimy Ridge|Sarah Roynette / Lens Tourisme

        Managed by Veterans Affairs Canada, the Visitor Education Centre brings the story to life. Multimedia displays, personal accounts, and original artefacts invite you to explore the human side of history.

        Whether you’re a student, teacher, veteran, or traveller, it’s a place to connect — to feel, not just learn.

        The Interpretation CentreThe Interpretation Centre
        ©The Interpretation Centre|Sarah Roynette / Lens Tourisme

          Each year, on April 9th and during Remembrance Week, official ceremonies are held here. Visitors gather to lay wreaths, observe silence, and reflect. It’s a powerful experience — solemn yet communal.

          Ceremonies of RemembranceCeremonies of Remembrance
          ©Ceremonies of Remembrance

            Plan Your Visit

            to Vimy Ridge

            Located near Givenchy-en-Gohelle, the Vimy Memorial is open year-round. Entry is free, and guided tours are available seasonally.

            Best times to visit ? Spring and early autumn — when the weather is mild, the crowds fewer, and the experience most reflective.

            Frequently Asked Questions

            Before You Go

            Plan your visit to the Vimy Memorial and walk where heroes once stood. Let the silence speak. Let the stone remember. And let your presence — quiet, curious, respectful — become part of the memory.

            → Explore the site and memory trails
            → Learn more about Canada’s sacrifice

            Plan your commemorative journey