Orne

Orne
Department	Orne
Number	61
Region	Normandy
Prefecture	Alençon
Subprefectures	Argentan, Mortagne-au-Perche
President	Christophe de Balorre
Population	279,942
Population date	2021
Area km2	6103
Cantons	21
Communes	385

Orne. It is a department in the northwest of France, located within the administrative region of Normandy. Named after the Orne River that flows through it, its prefecture is the historic city of Alençon. The department is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from the rolling hills of the Perche to the plains of Argentan, and it played a significant role during the Norman conquest of England and the Battle of Normandy in World War II.

Geography

Orne is situated in the former province of Normandy, bordered by the departments of Eure, Eure-et-Loir, Sarthe, Mayenne, Manche, and Calvados. Its northern part lies within the Norman Perche, while the south extends into the Hills of Perche. The terrain is defined by several river valleys, including those of the Orne (river), the Sarthe, and the Huisne. Notable natural regions include the Suisse Normande, an area of rugged cliffs and gorges along the Orne River, and the Forest of Écouves, one of the largest forests in northwestern France. The department's highest point is the Signal d'Écouves, reaching an elevation of 413 meters.

History

The area now constituting Orne was historically part of the Duchy of Normandy and the County of Perche. It was formally created as a department during the French Revolution on March 4, 1790, pursuant to the law of December 22, 1789. The region was a major theater during the Hundred Years' War and later saw significant action in the summer of 1944 as part of the Falaise pocket, a decisive engagement in the Liberation of France. Key locations include the Mortain counterattack site and the Medieval town of Domfront. The department is also the birthplace of notable figures such as the painter Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and the writer Jules Barbey d'Aurevilly.

Demographics

As of 2021, Orne had a population of approximately 279,942 inhabitants, with a population density of about 46 people per square kilometer, making it one of the least densely populated departments in France. The population is predominantly concentrated in a few urban centers, with the arrondissement capitals of Alençon, Argentan, and Mortagne-au-Perche serving as the main hubs. The department has experienced a slow but steady population decline over recent decades, a trend common in many rural French areas. A significant portion of the population is elderly, while younger demographics often migrate to larger cities like Caen or Le Mans for education and employment.

Economy

The economy of Orne is traditionally based on agriculture and animal husbandry, with renowned productions including the Camembert cheese from the village of Camembert, the Brie de Meaux, and the Percheron draft horse breed. The department also has a strong industrial sector, particularly in metallurgy and plastics, centered around towns like Flers and La Ferté-Macé. The Automotive industry has a presence, with several subcontracting factories supplying major manufacturers like Renault and PSA Peugeot Citroën. Tourism is a growing sector, focused on equestrian activities, green tourism in the Perche Regional Natural Park, and historical sites related to World War II.

Culture and heritage

Orne possesses a rich cultural heritage, exemplified by its architectural landmarks such as the Château de Carrouges, the Haras du Pin national stud farm, and the Cathedral of Sées. The department is famous for its lace making tradition, particularly the Point d'Alençon lace. It hosts several annual events including the Percheron horse shows in Le Pin-au-Haras and the Festival of the 24 Hours of Le Mans motorcycle race. The local cuisine features regional specialties like tripes à la mode de Caen, andouillette sausages from Alençon, and the apple-based spirits Calvados and Pommeau de Normandie.

Administration

The department is administered by the Departmental Council of Orne, headquartered in Alençon, with its current president being Christophe de Balorre. Orne is divided into three arrondissements: Alençon, Argentan, and Mortagne-au-Perche. These are further subdivided into 21 cantons and 385 communes. It forms part of the Normandy region and is represented in the National Assembly by three deputies and in the Senate by two senators. The department is also within the jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal of Caen and the Academic Region of Normandy.

Category:Departments of Normandy Category:1790 establishments in France