Ganges, Hérault

Ganges

Town hall

Coat of arms
Ganges

Coordinates: 43°56′06″N 3°42′33″E / 43.935°N 3.7092°E / 43.935; 3.7092Coordinates: 43°56′06″N 3°42′33″E / 43.935°N 3.7092°E / 43.935; 3.7092
Country France
Region Languedoc-Roussillon-Midi-Pyrénées
Department Hérault
Arrondissement Lodève
Canton Ganges
Intercommunality Cévennes Gangeoises et Suménoises
Government
 • Mayor (2008–2014) Jacques Rigaud
Area1 7.16 km2 (2.76 sq mi)
Population (2008)2 4,003
 • Density 560/km2 (1,400/sq mi)
INSEE/Postal code 34111 / 34190
Elevation 138–540 m (453–1,772 ft)
(avg. 186 m or 610 ft)

1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km² (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

2 Population without double counting: residents of multiple communes (e.g., students and military personnel) only counted once.

Ganges is a commune in the Hérault department in Languedoc-Roussillon in southern France.

Location

Map

Ganges is situated at the confuence of the Hérault and Rieutord rivers.[1]

History

The castle, of which only ruins remain, was the scene of a murder in the 17th century. The beautiful Dianne de Roussan was killed by her husband's brothers, who wanted her large fortune. They were caught and subsequently executed.

Ganges became prosperous from the manufacture of fine silk stockings during the reign of Louis XIV. Natural silk was replaced by artificial, and later by nylon, and cottage industry gave way to factories; half a dozen or so still produce high quality stockings.

In August 1944, German forces unsuccessfully tried to force a way down the Hérault River valley through Ganges; they were repelled by the defence of the Aigoual-Cévennes maquis.[2]

Population

Historical population
YearPop.±%
19624,818—    
19684,872+1.1%
19753,858−20.8%
19823,533−8.4%
19903,343−5.4%
19993,502+4.8%
20084,003+14.3%

Tourism

The area around Ganges offers extensive activities, including kayaking, gliding and go-karting.

The mobilette was created by a resident of Ganges and a plaque near the old town commemorates this fact.

International relations

Ganges is the twin town of Schwalmtal (Germany).

See also

References

  1. ↑ Languedoc, Rousillon, Tarn Gorges, 2nd ed., Michelin Tyre plc, 1998, p 193 ISBN 2-06-136602-3
  2. ↑ Languedoc, Rousillon, Tarn Gorges.
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