Châlons-en-Champagne, Administrative center in Marne, France.
Châlons-en-Champagne is the administrative center of the Marne department in northeastern France, crossed by canals that shape the layout of its old quarter. Buildings range from stone houses with shuttered windows to later structures, while footbridges and waterside paths follow the channels.
The town was known as Catalaunum in Roman times and stood on roads used by legions and merchants traveling through Gaul. In the 5th century, a large battle took place nearby when Roman and Germanic forces confronted the Huns.
The town carries a nickname locals use in daily conversation, simply calling it Châlons rather than its full ceremonial title. Streets often open onto small squares where residents gather at outdoor tables under awnings.
The center is small enough to walk around, with churches, markets, and canal paths within easy reach of each other. Visitor information stands near the main square, where signs point toward major landmarks.
Beneath the old quarter, chalk cellars extend in long galleries where champagne bottles age in steady temperatures year-round. Some houses open for tours, letting visitors see the bottle-lined vaults and old production tools.
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