Brasserie Casemates

Assignment:
Sample the casemate beer.

HISTORY:

These underground spaces or 'souterrains' were built around 1685, according to the plans of Vauban, the great fortification engineer of Louis XIV. They served for centuries as a military bakery for the garrison of the fortress. In the past 100 years, the spaces have experienced quite a lot. During World War I, British troops converted the bomb-proof spaces into a headquarters, living, and rest areas, a printing press,... The Casemates became very important during World War II as a shelter for the population of Ypres. In more peaceful times, there was an ice factory, a mushroom farm, cheese aging facility,...

The new reception center De Kazematten consists of 5 large halls that have been restored and adapted with great respect for the building's history for contemporary and versatile use. You will find a stylish brasserie, under the wings of the Saint Bernardus brewery from Watou, where you can enjoy regional beers or a hearty snack. There is a large meeting room suitable for organizing information evenings, presentations, or other gatherings. In halls 4 and 5, the interpretation center 'Ten Centuries of Ypres Fortifications' has been established. You can get to know the history of the Ypres fortification landscape with its unique cultural-historical testimonies and the beautiful nature that has been able to develop right next to the historic city center. After getting acquainted with the fortification landscape in the interpretation center, you can easily reach the high rampart of the fortress from the Casemates and start the fortification route.

Mien Verstraete