Ardennes (department)

Ardennes is a department in the Grand Est region of France. Named after the Ardennes area, it is surrounded by the French departments of Aisne, Marne, Meuse, and by Belgium.

History

The Ardennes department is one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution on 4 March 1790. It was created from the former province of Champagne.

Geography

The Ardennes department is located in the north-east of France, close to the border with Belgium. It is dominated by the hills of the Ardennes mountain range, the highest point being the Neufmanil hill at 293 meters. The main rivers in the department are the Meuse and the Semois, which both originate in Belgium.

Economy

The economy of the Ardennes department is largely based on agriculture, with a focus on dairy farming and cattle breeding. The region is also known for its production of Ardennes ham, a type of smoked ham that is a specialty of the area.

Culture

The Ardennes department is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous castles, churches, and museums. The Sedan Castle, one of the largest fortified medieval castles in Europe, is a major tourist attraction. The department is also known for its folklore and traditions, such as the Carnival of Binche in Belgium, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

See also

• List of communes of the Ardennes department
• Cantons of the Ardennes department
• Arrondissements of the Ardennes department