Melun

Melun
source
Name	Melun
Arrondissement	Melun
Canton	Melun
Insee	77288
Postal code	77000
Mayor	Louis Vogel
Term	2020–2026
Intercommunality	CA Melun Val de Seine
Elevation min m	37
Elevation max m	102
Area km2	8.04
Population	2021
Population date	2021

Melun. It is a historic prefecture and subprefecture of the Seine-et-Marne department in the Île-de-France region. Strategically situated on the banks of the Seine and near the Forest of Fontainebleau, it serves as a significant administrative and economic hub southeast of Paris.

History

The site, originally a Gallo-Roman settlement known as *Melodunum*, was an important fortified town on the road from Lutetia to Lugdunum. In the Early Middle Ages, it became a favored residence for the Capetian dynasty, with King Robert II dying at the Château de Melun in 1031. The town was besieged during the Hundred Years' War, notably by forces under Edward the Black Prince in 1359, and was a center of power for figures like Jacques Cœur and Agnès Sorel, who died there in 1450. During the French Wars of Religion, it was captured by the Catholic League and later saw action in the War of the Sixth Coalition when it was occupied by Prussian and Russian troops following the Battle of Paris (1814). The 19th century brought railway development, connecting it to the Paris–Marseille railway, and it suffered damage during the Franco-Prussian War and World War II.

Geography

Located approximately 41 kilometers southeast of Paris, it lies within the Île-de-France region. The Seine river divides the city, with the historic core situated on an island, the Île Saint-Étienne, and urban areas extending onto both banks. It is positioned at the northern edge of the Brie region and is proximate to the Forest of Fontainebleau and the town of Fontainebleau itself. The surrounding area is characterized by a mix of riverine landscapes, agricultural plains, and suburban development, with the Yerres river flowing nearby.

Demographics

According to the latest INSEE figures, the population is approximately 42,000 inhabitants, known as *Melunais*. The demographic profile reflects its role as a departmental capital, with a mix of long-term residents and commuters to the greater Paris metropolitan area. Population growth has been steady, influenced by its position within the Melun Val de Seine agglomeration community. The city exhibits a relatively young demographic, partly due to the presence of several higher education institutions and military facilities.

Economy

As a prefecture, the public administration sector, including the Préfecture and departmental services, is a major employer. The economy is diversified, with significant activity in retail, healthcare, and education. It hosts important regional branches of companies like Groupe Atlantic and is a center for the French Army, with the École des officiers de la gendarmerie nationale and other military institutions. The presence of the Melun-Sénart business park and good transport links, including the A5 autoroute and RER D line, support commercial and logistical activities.

Culture and landmarks

The city's architectural heritage includes the Collégiale Notre-Dame de Melun, a Gothic church once housing the Melun Diptych by Jean Fouquet. The former Saint-Étienne church and the Hôtel de la Vicomté are notable historical buildings. Cultural institutions include the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Melun and the Théâtre de Melun. Annual events like the Fête de la Musique and a well-regarded market animate the city. The nearby Vaux-le-Vicomte and Château de Fontainebleau are major tourist attractions in the vicinity.

Administration

It is the capital of the arrondissement of Melun and the canton of Melun. The mayor is Louis Vogel, and the city is part of the Communauté d'agglomération Melun Val de Seine. It hosts the headquarters of the Seine-et-Marne Departmental Council and the prefectural administration. The city is divided into several quarters, including the historic island center, La Rochefoucauld, Montaigu, and Schuman, each with distinct administrative focuses within the municipal structure.

Category:Communes in Seine-et-Marne Category:Prefectures in France