Serving as the capital of Arelerland, Arlon is a small Belgian city near the border with Luxembourg. It was once known as the town of “Orolaunum vicus” and was located at the crossroads of two Gallo-Roman trade routes. Since that time, Arlon has spent periods under the Kingdom of Lotharingia, the Duchy of Luxembourg and the French Republic.
Things to do in Arlon
History buffs can visit Musee Archeologique, which boasts one of Belgium’s most impressive archaeological collections. In addition to Gallo-Roman sculptures, ceramics and tools, it houses a fascinating collection of ancient funerary monuments that were preserved after being reused as rampart foundations. Also of note are the remains of a 3rd-century defensive wall, which still stands in Arlon today.
At the Gaspar Museum, you can learn about the life and legacy of the Belgian sculptor Jean-Marie Gaspar and the photography work of his brother, Charles. The museum occupies a bank once owned by the Gaspar family, with both brothers born in Arlon. Also exhibited are artworks from across the region, including a 16th-century altarpiece from the village of Fisenne.
Rising atop a hill overlooking the town is St. Donatus' Church, which was built atop the ruins of an 11th-century fortified chateau. From 1620, it served as a house of worship for a group of Capuchin monks and was dedicated to St. Donatus after it survived a lightning strike in 1719. From the top of the church tower, there are magnificent views across Belgium, Luxembourg and France.
Getting around Arlon
Arlon is around 40 minutes’ drive from Luxembourg Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Arlon railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Arlon can easily be explored on foot.