Information
City: ArlonCountry: Belgium
Continent: Europe
Arlon, Belgium, Europe
Overview
Arlon sits in the far south of Belgium, in the Wallonia region, and serves as the capital of Luxembourg province.Arlon carries a unique weight in history, with Roman streets beneath its soil and a spot just a short drive from both the French and Luxembourg borders.Arlon may be smaller than many Belgian cities, but it brims with culture-ancient stone churches, tree-lined streets, and a quiet energy that hums through its mix of history and natural beauty.History - Roman Origins: Arlon’s story reaches all the way to Roman times, when stone roads cut through its rolling hills.Long ago, the Romans built a settlement here called Orolaunum, its streets echoing with the clatter of sandals, and it became a key administrative hub for the province of Belgica.A Roman road once cut through the heart of the city, tying the Empire’s far northern outposts to the sunlit shores of the Mediterranean.You can still spot the legacy of that time in the worn stone arches and scattered Roman artifacts across the region.In the Middle Ages, after Rome’s fall, Arlon joined the Holy Roman Empire before eventually coming under the Duchy of Luxembourg’s rule.In the Middle Ages, the town bustled with merchants in the market square, artists at work, and pilgrims crowding its churches.During this period, the Fortified Castle of Arlon rose stone by stone to shield the town from outside danger.In the 17th century, French forces took hold of Arlon-along with much of Luxembourg-during the thunder of the Revolutionary Wars.After Napoleon’s rule ended, Arlon became part of Belgium in 1830, the year the country claimed its independence and raised its own flag.Thanks to its spot near the borders of France and Luxembourg, the city has long drawn influences that shaped its character and growth.Today, Arlon blends sleek modern streets with centuries-old stone facades, serving as a key administrative, commercial, and cultural hub of the province.It blends modern living with old-world charm, and being so close to France and Luxembourg makes it a draw for visitors from near and far.In Arlon, you can wander past Roman ruins, medieval stone towers, and striking works of art that speak to the city’s lively, evolving culture.The Arlon Archaeological Museum, or Musée Archéologique d'Arlon, offers a vivid glimpse into the city’s Roman roots and medieval history, from carved stone altars to worn coins still faintly glinting in the light.Inside, you’ll find a remarkable trove of Roman artifacts-pottery with worn rims, glinting coins, and well-used tools.Just a short walk from where a Roman villa once stood, the museum offers a vivid glimpse into the region’s early history.One highlight is the Roman Villa of Ola-among Arlon’s most important archaeological sites-where you can wander through weathered stone walls that once framed a grand Roman home.The villa was once a grand Roman estate, complete with bright mosaic floors, steamy baths, and underfloor heating.In the heart of the city stands Saint-Martin’s Church, a striking neo-Gothic landmark.Built in the 19th century, it boasts vibrant stained-glass windows that catch the morning light, a grand altar, and a bell tower that rises high into the sky.The church holds deep meaning for the local community, a place where candles flicker in the quiet air.Just a short walk away, the Fortified Castle of Arlon, built in the Middle Ages, once stood guard as part of the city’s defenses.Most of the castle has vanished over time, but you can still spot stretches of its old walls threading through the city, hinting at Arlon’s medieval defenses.The Porte de la Ville, a weathered stone arch, stands as the last gateway of the former fortress.This 18th‑century gate still stands as proof of the city’s military past, just steps from the Place Léopold, a lively square in the heart of Arlon lined with old stone façades and bustling cafés.Locals and travelers alike flock here to unwind, chat, and soak in the city’s lively buzz, with the Belfry of Arlon-part of the Walloon belfries and a UNESCO World Heritage site-rising above it all.The belfry stands as a proud emblem of the city’s independence, a reminder of its place in medieval governance, its bells once carrying news across the rooftops.Arlon hums with life, steeped in rich traditions and lively festivals.All year long, the city bursts to life with festivals, art shows, and live music, each one honoring its storied past and the buzz of its streets.Fête de la Saint-Martin is one of Arlon’s biggest celebrations, held each year to honor the city’s patron, Saint Martin, with streets lit by lanterns and filled with music.The festival bursts to life with colorful dances and music, winding processions in bright silk, and fireworks that crackle overhead.Locals and visitors alike look forward to the Arlon Christmas Market, a beloved winter tradition that fills the city with twinkling lights and festive scents during the holiday season.At the market, you’ll find handmade candles, spiced cookies fresh from the oven, and bright garlands twinkling under the lights-an easy place to slip into the Christmas mood.Arlon also comes alive with its international music festival, where musicians from around the globe fill the air with sound.The festival spans everything from the sweep of a violin in a classical piece to the smoky improvisation of late-night jazz, making it a highlight for music lovers.In Arlon, art thrives too, with museums and galleries buzzing year-round with exhibitions and cultural events.You can wander through contemporary pieces and centuries-old works at places like the Musée Archéologique d'Arlon or the Maison du Tourisme.In the Walloon region, Arlon’s food stays true to Belgian roots-think steaming bowls of stew and crusty bread fresh from the oven.Local dishes draw deeply from French and Belgian traditions, from buttery pastries to rich, slow-simmered stews.In Arlon, one standout dish is the famous Arlonese meatballs, usually paired with crisp fries and stoemp-a warm mash of potatoes and vegetables.Another local favorite is “porc au fromage,” tender pork simmered with rich, tangy local cheese.And like much of Belgium, Arlon takes its beer seriously, with golden ales poured fresh at nearly every café.Visitors can sip their way through local brews from Luxembourg province, from crisp blondes to rich brunes and the deep, yeasty warmth of a Trappist ale.Beer tastings and pub tours draw plenty of visitors, the clink of glasses filling cozy bars.Belgium’s love of chocolate is legendary, and in Arlon you’ll find shops rich with its scent.You’ll find plenty of chocolate shops here, each crafting silky truffles and other sweet treats that melt the moment they touch your tongue.Arlon’s easy to reach, with transport links that connect it to the rest of Belgium and nearby countries.By train, you can reach Arlon via its central railway station, with frequent departures to Brussels, Luxembourg, and other nearby cities.The station serves as a busy hub for international trains, so you can be in France or Luxembourg in no time.By car, Arlon sits right off major highways, just a quick turn from the exit ramp.The city sits just a short walk from the E, where you can hear the rumble of trains as they pull into the station.
Landmarks in Arlon
