Canadian National Vimy Memorial

The Canadian National Vimy Memorial is a First World War monument and commemorative site on Vimy Ridge in northern France. It commemorates Canadian Expeditionary Force members who died in France and have no known grave.

The main monument is a large sculptural ensemble in pale limestone set on a raised mound, offering broad views across the Douai plain; the names of more than 11,000 missing Canadians are inscribed on the site. Adjacent areas include preserved trench lines and a visitor centre with exhibitions on the battle and its significance.

The memorial was designed by Canadian sculptor Walter Seymour Allward and was unveiled in 1936; it has since been maintained as a national memorial and historic site by the Canadian government. The site combines formal commemoration with conservation of battlefield remains.

Geographically it stands on Vimy Ridge in the Pas-de-Calais area of Hauts-de-France, roughly northeast of Arras, positioned on a prominent ridge that was the scene of heavy fighting in April 1917.

• Names on the memorial: The memorial bears the names of 11,285 Canadian servicemen who died in France during the First World War and have no known grave.
• Designer and unveiling: Designed by sculptor Walter Seymour Allward and unveiled in 1936, the memorial stands on Vimy Ridge and is managed by the Canadian government as a national historic site.

What to See #

• Memorial monument: An imposing limestone memorial sculpture group and twin pylons set on a landscaped hill that serve as the main commemorative monument and viewpoint over the surrounding plain.
• Visitor centre and preserved trenches: A visitor centre and preserved trench systems located in the adjoining historic battlefield area provide interpretive exhibits about the April 1917 battle and Canadian forces' role.