Arlon

Arlon, the provincial seat of Belgium's Luxembourg region, stands as one of the country's most ancient cities, its narrative stretching back two millennia to Gallo-Roman times. Positioned at the convergence of antique Roman thoroughfares, it once flourished as a commercial and administrative nucleus known as Orolaunum. Today, Arlon offers a convergence of its deep historical roots and a tranquil, provincial ambiance, rendering it an intriguing destination beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

The city's urban design retains a distinctly medieval character, with slender lanes ascending towards the hill that anchors the historic core. Wanderers can uncover Roman vestiges scattered throughout the city, delve into captivating museums, and absorb the vistas from atmospheric churches. Arlon also serves as a portal to the Belgian Ardennes, providing ample avenues for outdoor pursuits such as walking and cycling.

From Roman Crossroads to Provincial Capital

Arlon's origins trace back to the Gallo-Roman period, when it was known as Orolaunum vicus. It was strategically positioned at the intersection of two significant Roman roads: Reims-Trier and Metz-Tongeren. This prime location fostered prosperity through trade with neighboring regions and even as far as the Mediterranean. The local Celtic tribe, the Treveri, readily adapted to Roman culture, and the abundance of sculpted stones and monuments unearthed in the area attest to Orolaunum's importance as a Roman commercial and administrative hub.

The 3rd century saw the fortification of Orolaunum with defensive walls, including 15 to 20 watchtowers, built on the Knipchen hill to protect against Germanic invasions. During the Middle Ages, earlier Roman structures, such as the thermal baths, remained in use. In 1060, Waleran I of Limburg, Count of Arlon, constructed a castle on the Knipchen hill. Arlon became part of the County of Luxembourg in the 13th century.

The 16th century brought a period of unrest, with nearly half the city, including its castle, destroyed by French troops in 1588. In the 17th century, Capuchin monks built a convent on the castle's ruins, and the French, under Vauban's design, reinforced the city's defensive walls. A major fire in 1785 again devastated a significant portion of the city.

Following Napoleon's defeat in 1815, Arlon reverted to the government of the Duchy of Luxembourg. The Treaty of London in 1839 ceded the western part of the Grand Duchy, including Arlon, to the newly independent Kingdom of Belgium, forming the present-day province of Luxembourg. Historically, Arlon had a Luxembourgish-speaking population, which over time largely shifted to French. The city was among the first to be invaded during both World War I and World War II.

Begin your exploration at the Arlon Archaeological Museum, considered one of Belgium's most important, exhibiting artifacts from the Roman period and beyond. Its lapidary collection, with 425 sculptures from funerary monuments and civilian buildings, offers insights into ancient daily life. Nearby, the Archaeological Park reveals the remains of a Gallo-Roman complex, including a former basilica and baths.

Ascend Knipchen Hill to the Saint-Donat Church, a 17th-century Capuchin-built church standing where a fortress once did. From its belvedere, climb 144 steps for expansive views that, on a clear day, extend into France and Luxembourg. The carillon plays a traditional Luxembourgish folk song hourly. In the lower town, the neo-Gothic Saint Martin Church, with its 97-meter-tall tower, is a listed heritage site known for its stained-glass windows. Do not overlook the Jupiter and Neptune Roman Towers, remnants of the 3rd-century defensive walls, which can be visited with a magnetic card from the Tourist Office. The Gaspar Museum presents a collection of regional art and works by Jean-Marie and Charles Gaspar. For a taste of local culture, visit the Synagogue of Arlon, Belgium's oldest, with its Romano-Byzantine style.

The most agreeable time to visit Arlon is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is gentle and visitor numbers are more modest. For warm-weather activities, late June to late August offers comfortable temperatures, with July being the warmest month, averaging highs of 71°F (22°C). Arlon experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with December typically being the wettest month and April the driest.

Arlon is accessible by train from major Belgian cities like Brussels (approximately 2 hours 45 minutes) and Namur (1 hour 40 minutes), and is just 20 minutes from Luxembourg City. The Arlon train station is about 300 meters south of the historical center. By car, Arlon is connected via the E411 motorway from Brussels and the E25 highway from Liège. Luxembourg-Findel Airport is about 40 kilometers away.

The historic core of Arlon is compact and easily explored on foot. For sights further afield, consider renting a car or bicycle; the tourist center offers e-bike and regular bike rentals. The primary language spoken is French, though English is often understood in tourist areas. Accommodation options range from hotels and bed and breakfasts to holiday apartments, catering to various budgets.