Millions of men from around the world fought and died here. It is estimated that nearly four million German, French and British soldiers died in action or as a result of the injuries they sustained in combat. Remembrance tourism arose from the desire to pay homage to these brave men.

From the onset of the war these deaths implied that a specific administration and procedures had to be established. Managing the dead thus became one of the primary concerns of the warring parties.

The question of how to pay tribute to these men also became a concern during the years after the war. Many families or communities were plunged into mourning after this conflict and wished to commemorate those who had died. Numerous monuments were built in their honour.

Finally the areas near the front, where cemeteries and memorials were built, soon started attracting men and women who came to pray near the sites where so many men had fallen.