The 96 meter high tower is the work of Jan van Ruysbroeck, the leading spire specialist . He had the lower section built square to support the weight above, choosing a design that blended seamlessly with the elaborately carved facade on either side. Above the cornice protrudes an octagonal extension where the basic design of narrow windows flanked by pencil-thin columns and pinnacles is repeated up as far as the pyramid-shaped spire. It is surmounted by a gilded figure of St Michael, protector of Christians and sordiers
