Basse-Normandie

Basse-Normandie was an administrative region in France, located in the northern part of the country. It was one of the 27 regions created in the first wave of French regionalization in 1956 and existed until 2015, when it was merged with the neighboring region of Haute-Normandie to form the new region of Normandy.

History

The region of Basse-Normandie was established in 1956 as part of a broader effort to improve administrative efficiency and regional identity within France. The region encompassed the western and lower parts of the historical Normandy, which was known for its significant role in medieval history, particularly during the Norman Conquest of England.

Geography

Basse-Normandie was bordered by the English Channel to the north, Haute-Normandie to the east, Centre-Val de Loire to the southeast, Pays de la Loire to the south, and Brittany to the southwest. The region was known for its varied landscape, including the famous Normandy beaches, rural farmland, and the Normandy bocage, a patterned mix of pasture and woodland.

Economy

The economy of Basse-Normandie was diverse, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, particularly dairy and apple production. The region was famous for products such as Camembert cheese, Calvados, and cider. Additionally, Basse-Normandie had a robust maritime economy, with significant activities in fishing, shipbuilding, and maritime trade.

Culture

Basse-Normandie was rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, including the Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the D-Day landing beaches, significant for their role in World War II. The region also celebrated a range of cultural festivals and was known for its traditional Norman cuisine.

Demographics

The population of Basse-Normandie was characterized by a mix of rural and urban communities, with the largest city being Caen, which also served as the administrative center. Other important cities included Cherbourg-Octeville, Alençon, and Lisieux.

Education

Basse-Normandie hosted several higher education institutions, including the University of Caen Normandy, which was a center for research and higher learning in the region.

Transport

The region was well-connected by a network of roads and railways, including the major motorways and the regional train services that linked Basse-Normandie to Paris and other parts of France.

See also

• Normandy
• Regions of France
• Norman Conquest