Franche-Comté

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1771 Bonne Map of Burgundy, Franche-Comté, and Lyonnais, France - Geographicus - Bourgogne-bonne-1771

Franche-Comté is a historical region and former administrative division of France. Located in the eastern part of the country, it is bordered by the regions of Burgundy to the west, Lorraine to the north, Alsace to the northeast, Switzerland to the east, and Rhône-Alpes to the south. The region is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Vosges Mountains in the north to the Jura Mountains in the south, and includes part of the scenic Doubs River valley.

History

The history of Franche-Comté dates back to the Roman era, when it was part of the province of Sequani. In the Middle Ages, it became a contested region between the Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of France. It was officially ceded to France in the Treaty of Nijmegen in 1678, after a series of conflicts known as the Franco-Spanish Wars. The region's strategic location and its fortified towns, such as Besançon, played a significant role in its history.

Geography

Franche-Comté is known for its significant natural beauty, encompassing the Jura Mountains, dense forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. The region's geography makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. The Doubs River is a notable geographical feature, offering picturesque landscapes and opportunities for water sports.

Economy

The economy of Franche-Comté is diverse, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing, particularly in the automobile and watchmaking industries. The region is also known for its agriculture, including dairy farming and the production of Comté cheese, one of France's most famous cheeses. Additionally, Franche-Comté has a growing tourism sector, thanks to its natural beauty and historical sites.

Culture

Franche-Comté has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from both France and Switzerland. The region is famous for its cuisine, especially its cheeses and wines. The cultural calendar includes numerous festivals and events, celebrating everything from traditional music and dance to contemporary arts.

Administrative Division

Until 2016, Franche-Comté was an administrative region of France. It was merged with the neighboring region of Burgundy to form the new region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. The former region of Franche-Comté comprised four departments: Doubs, Jura, Haute-Saône, and Territoire de Belfort.

Notable Cities

• Besançon – The historical capital of Franche-Comté, known for its citadel and as the birthplace of the famous French writer Victor Hugo.
• Dole – A town known for its beautiful old town and as the birthplace of Louis Pasteur.
• Montbéliard – Known for its castle and as a center of the automobile industry.

See Also

• Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
• Comté cheese
• Jura Mountains