Lower-Normandy
Lower-Normandy (Basse-Normandie in French) is a former administrative region of France, located in the northwest part of the country. It was one of the 27 regions of France until the regional reforms in 2016, when it merged with Upper-Normandy to form the larger region of Normandy.
Geography
Lower-Normandy covers an area of approximately 17,589 km2. The region is characterized by its diverse landscapes:
- The coastal areas along the English Channel with cliffs, beaches, and ports like Cherbourg.
- The Bocage, an area of small fields enclosed by hedgerows, which is particularly noted in the south.
- The fertile Cotentin Peninsula, known for its agriculture.
History
The history of Lower-Normandy is rich and intertwined with significant events:
- Norman Conquest: The region was the base for William the Conqueror, who launched his successful invasion of England in 1066 from here.
- World War II: Lower-Normandy was one of the main theaters of the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, with key sites like Omaha Beach and Utah Beach located here.
- Administrative Changes: The region was part of the historical Duchy of Normandy until the French Revolution. After the Revolution, it was divided into departments, which were later grouped into the Lower-Normandy region in 1956.
Culture and Heritage
The cultural heritage of Lower-Normandy is deeply rooted in its history:
- Language: Norman, a dialect of the Oïl languages, was traditionally spoken here, though its use has significantly declined.
- Architecture: The region features medieval architecture, including castles, churches, and abbeys, with notable examples like Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Food and Drink: Known for its culinary traditions, including dishes like Camembert cheese, Calvados (an apple brandy), and Cider.
Economy
Lower-Normandy's economy includes:
- Agriculture: Dairy farming, apples, and grain production are significant.
- Tourism: Attracting visitors with its historical sites, particularly those related to WWII, and its scenic beauty.
- Industry: Although less industrialized than other French regions, there are sectors like shipbuilding in Cherbourg and food processing.
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