The Atlantikwall Raversyde Provincial Park in Ostend (West Flanders) welcomed its 3 millionth paying visitor last week. Robin Vandesompel from Wachtebeke (East Flanders) was given a festive welcome and received a gift pack. The park celebrated the milestone with an extended weekend of festivities.
The opening of the Prince Karel Memorial on 7 July 1992 marked the start of what is now the Atlantikwall Raversyde Provincial Estate. In its first year, it welcomed some 28,000 visitors. The total now stands at 3 million paying visitors.
Member of the West Flanders provincial executive Jurgen Vanlerberghe emphasises that the venue has grown into a top attraction in the region. “It shows how heritage, nature and experience can reinforce one another. We aim to further strengthen that position through future investments” he told VRT News
The provincial estate includes a nature park that is free to enter. Walraversyde ANNO 1465 refers to the fishing village that once stood here many centuries ago. There is also the Atlantikwall Raversyde open-air museum. Here, visitors can explore the cottage once inhabited by Prince Karel of Flanders, Belgian regent following the Second World War. Here too you will find military bunkers and tunnels from both world wars.
Last weekend curator-coordinator Mathieu de Meyer told VRT News how he saw the milestone of the 3 millionth visitor primarily as an opportunity to thank visitors. “They have been making Atlantikwall Raversyde a vibrant place for over 30 years. That is why we are giving everyone a special welcome this weekend.”
Celebratory weekend
To celebrate reaching the 3 million visitor milestone, Atlantikwall Raversyde organised a special celebratory weekend. Visitors span a wheel of fortune and stood a chance of winning prizes. There was also extra entertainment in the form of a photo booth, workshops, street art and actors bringing the past to life.