Challans

Challans with 18,930 inhabitants (as of 1 January 2011) the capital of the French canton Challans in the department of Vendée in the Pays de la Loire.

Location

Challans is located in the northwest of the Vendée on the edge of the Breton marshes ( marais breton ).

History

In the Middle Ages Challans was under the rule of the barons of Commequiers. In the period from about 1500 to the beginning of the development of major regional fair city falls. The foire of minées place today in September each year as a show of craft, trade and industry in the Vendée instead.

In the Vendée uprisings Challans was the scene of armed clashes. In the 19th century the city experienced a boom during the Industrial Revolution with its favorable location on the new railway from Nantes to Saint- Gilles.

Demography

In 50 years, the population has tripled, so Challans is now the fourth largest city of the department.

Economy

Due to its location, it is able to profit from the visitors of the resorts of the Vendée. The local industry includes furniture makers and a work by the boat builder Beneteau.

Attractions

The Church of Challans features a Way of the Cross, who is known for his realistic depictions. For other reasons, it is estimated that local ducks are purchased as canards de Challans by Parisian gourmet restaurants.

Sons and daughters of the town

  • Jacqueline Auriol (1917-2000) pilot who broke the sound barrier as the first woman, multiple " fastest woman in the world"

Pictures of Challans

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