Guide to Meuse and Properties in Department 55

Meuse is a department located in the northeastern region of France that was named after the River Meuse. The department is a part of the current Grand-Est region and is bordered by the Ardennes, Marne, Haute-Marne, and Vosges departments, while its northern edge shares a short border with Belgium. Meuse is home to several significant natural areas that are protected under Parc naturel régional de Lorraine, which spans across three departments. During World War I, Meuse was the site of a significant battle/offensive in 1916, with the front lines in trench warfare running varying courses through the department. The capital and largest town in the department is Bar-le-Duc, while other notable towns include Commercy and Verdun.

Rolling Hills and Forests

The department is characterised by its rolling hills, which are known as the Argonne and are covered in oak forests. These hills run from south to north and separate the Seine and the Rhine watersheds. Meuse is home to several rivers, including the River Meuse, the Aire and the Chiers.

Lorraine Regional Natural Park

The department is also home to the Lorraine Regional Natural Park, which is a vast pastoral area stretching eastward from Metz and Nancy and spanning three departments. The park includes various natural habitats, such as calcareous grassland, forested valleys, wet meadows, ponds, and streams. There are many Natura 2000 protected areas in the park, making it an important resting area for migratory birds.

Key Information about Meuse

• Main City/Prefecture: Bar-le-Duc
• Nearest Airport: Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (approx. 100 km)
• Population: Around 184,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 6,211 sq. kilometres and 2,398 sq. miles
• Landmark: Verdun Battlefield, a major World War I site with memorials and museums.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1 million, drawn by its war history, nature and medieval towns.

To learn more about France, explore our "at a glance" guide and infographic, which are filled with insightful facts and figures.