Perched on a hill in the Hageland, the Vlooybergtoren stands as an architectural defiance of the laws of gravity. This 20-meter-long “stairway to heaven,” with its iconic rust-colored silhouette, seems to float above the ground, embodying an artistic legacy worthy of Magritte. From its eventful past to its award-winning steel structure, this fascinating building offers a spectacular panorama stretching from Vilvoorde to the mine shafts of Limburg. Between bucolic hikes, exploring the Forest of the Gnomes, and immersing yourself in the settings of the Callboys series, set out to discover this Belgian curiosity, a jewel of the local heritage.
Vlooybergtoren: the surrealist masterpiece that defies the sky
Erected in 2013, the Vlooybergtoren is the result of a unique architectural endeavor. Far from traditional staircases, this 20-meter-long structure soars into the void, illustrating the principle that “form follows function ”: to offer a view, one must rise high. Engineer Yves Willems drew his inspiration fromAntoine de Saint-Exupéry’s “Wind, Sand, and Stars,” advocating for perfection achieved when there is nothing left to remove.
Yet this apparent lightness conceals an engineering colossus. Weighing 13 tons and standing 11.28 meters tall, the structure consists of a galvanized steel frame cladin Corten steel, hence its rust-colored hue that pays homage to the iron-rich sandstone typical of the Hageland region. While its 55 steps seem to float, they rest on a solid concrete base, and their stability is ensured by twelve cables anchored 35 meters deep. Though not particularly attractive at first glance, this steel giant is ultimately full of surprises, blending industrial robustness with architectural ingenuity.
A trip to the summit: where nature meets architectural genius
This tension between the practical and the absurd earned the Tower first prize in the 2014 steel construction competition, with the jury seeing it as a “stairway to heaven” worthy of Magritte. A true “This is not a staircase,” since it ultimately leads to nothing but the panoramic view. Rising 80 meters above the hill, it offers a breathtaking view of the Antwerp Campine and the Limburg mines.
Its fame has even transcended the world of architecture to become a cult setting in the Callboys series, featuring actor Rik Verheye. Right nearby, the Forest of Gnomes at Huize Hageland offers a playful experience with its miniature houses, a must-see stop in the region. To prepare for your visit, note that this structure— which is free to access —can support a load of 400 kg/m² and features a safety system suitable for everyone. An unusual monument that is part of the local heritage.
📍Oude Pastoriestraat 22, 3390 Tielt-Winge
