The Orléanstower is the last remaining part of the medieval city fortification wall of Aarschot. After it had been heavily damaged during the Spanish War of 1578, it was decided in 1782 to demolish most of the wall, with the exception of a few towers. Since the 18th century, the tower has been depicted as a romantic landscape element in drawings, paintings and photographs. Situated on the highest grounds of Aarschot, the view over the valley and the town has been an attraction for centuries. Due to its strategic position, the tower served as an observation post for the Allied forces during both world wars. After 1945, various repairs were carried out, but since then the tower has always struggled with its status between being a ruin and a building. In today's restoration campaign, the tower is conserved as a ruin, embracing its status as a landscape element and allowing time to slowly leave its mark on the structure.
