Grand-Est
Grand-Est is one of the 18 administrative regions of France, created by the territorial reform of French Law in 2016. It was formed by the merger of three former regions: Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne, and Lorraine. Here's an overview of the region:
Geography
Located in the northeast of France, Grand-Est borders Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, making it a significant crossroads in Europe. The region spans a diverse landscape from the Vosges mountains in the south to the plains of Champagne and includes the industrial and forested areas of Lorraine.
History
- Prehistoric and Ancient Times: The area now known as Grand-Est has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with significant Celtic and Roman Gaul influences.
- Middle Ages: The region saw the rise of powerful duchies like Duchy of Lorraine and Duchy of Burgundy, which shaped its cultural and political landscape.
- Alsace's Unique Status: Due to its location, Alsace has been a contested area between France and Germany, with significant cultural exchanges.
- World Wars: The region was a focal point during both World Wars, with Verdun being the site of one of the longest and most devastating battles of World War I.
- Post-War and Modern Era: The creation of Grand-Est in 2016 aimed to enhance regional cohesion, economic development, and administrative efficiency.
Culture
The cultural heritage of Grand-Est is rich due to its historical diversity:
Economy
Grand-Est has a mixed economy with:
Notable Cities
External Links
Related Topics