Ypres

Ypres (Flemish, “leper”; pop. 34,800), city in West Flanders, western Belgium, on the Yperlee River. The city was a major textile center in the Middle Ages, and the main political power of Flanders in the 13th century. It declined in the 15th–18th centuries due to a succession of civil wars, religious strife, and military domination by the French and Dutch. It was nearly destroyed during World War I (battles of Ypres) and was again the scene of fighting in World War II. The city, with many of its medieval buildings, was rebuilt, and it is now a center for linen and lace-making and agricultural products.

See also: Belgium.