Laval, Administrative center in Mayenne, France
Laval is a commune on the banks of the Mayenne River in western France, serving as an administrative center that spreads across hilly terrain. A castle on a rocky outcrop overlooks the historic center, while newer districts extend along the riverbanks and onto surrounding hills.
During the 11th century a fortification appeared on a rock above the river, forming the core of the later settlement. Through the 14th century the textile industry became a major economic activity that shaped the growth of the commune.
The river divides the town into two banks, with the western side preserving the old quarter and its timber-frame buildings from medieval times. Visitors can walk narrow streets and observe architecture that shows the traditional building style of the region.
The railway station connects the commune with larger French cities and allows arrivals from different directions. A bus network serves surrounding towns and makes movement within the administrative area easier.
A museum displays works of naive art and dedicates part of its collection to a painter who was born here during the 19th century. The artist began his career only later in life and developed a self-taught style.
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