Alençon, Regional administrative center in Normandy, France
Alençon is an administrative capital in the Orne département of Normandy, located roughly 173 kilometers west of Paris at an elevation of 135 meters. The town sits along the banks of the Sarthe river and features a mix of medieval quarters and modern residential areas spread across several low hills.
The settlement emerged in the 10th century as a strategic buffer zone between Normandy and Maine and gained ducal status in 1415. During the 17th century, the famous lace industry developed here, bringing economic importance to the town.
The Musée des Beaux-arts et de la Dentelle presents exhibitions highlighting the local point d'Alençon lace techniques and regional artistic heritage. In the old town, traditional half-timbered houses and narrow lanes recall the centuries-old craft traditions of the settlement.
The town maintains a functional transport network with access to the A28 motorway, regional trains, and a local bus system. The old center can be explored comfortably on foot, as most points of interest lie within walking distance of each other.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame, registered as a monument since 1862, displays Gothic architecture with finely worked stone carvings and detailed flying buttresses. Inside, colorfully painted glass windows from the 16th century depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
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