Châlons-en-Champagne

Châlons-en-Champagne is a city and commune in France. Population (1999): 47,339.

Formerly called Châlons-sur-Marne, the city was officially renamed Châlons-en-Champagne in 1998. Not to be confused with Chalon-sur-Saône.

Administration

Châlons-en-Champagne is the préfecture (capital) of the Marne département, and the capital of the Champagne-Ardenne région.

History

Many historians believe that the Battle of Chalons occurred near this city in AD 451. It was a battle between the Roman general Aetius, assisted by the Visigoths under their king Theodorid and other foederati on one side, and the Huns led by their king Attila with their allies.

Eddie Izzard spent time here in his youth as an exchange student.

Miscellaneous

Châlons-en-Champagne was the birthplace of:

• David Blondel (1591-1655), Protestant clergyman
• Adolphe Willette (1857–1926), painter
• Xavier Bertrand (born 1965), politician

External link

• City council website