Laon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Laon
|
||
|---|---|---|
The historical town center.
|
||
|
||
 Laon
Location in France
Laon
Location in Hauts-de-France
|
||
| Country | France | |
| Region | Hauts-de-France | |
| Department | Aisne | |
| Arrondissement | Laon | |
| Intercommunality | Laon | |
| Area
1
|
42.00 km2 (16.22 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2012)
|
25,317 | |
| • Density | 602.79/km2 (1,561.21/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
| INSEE/Postal code |
02408 /02000
|
|
| Elevation | 63–183 m (207–600 ft) (avg. 83 m or 272 ft) |
|
| 1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | ||
.svg)
Laon is an ancient and historic city in northern France. It is the main city, known as the prefecture, of the Aisne department. This department is part of the Picardy region. Laon is famous for its amazing hilltop location and its beautiful old buildings.
Contents
Exploring Laon's History
Laon has a very long and interesting history, going back thousands of years. It was an important place even during the time of the Roman Empire. The city's unique location on a steep hill made it a natural fortress. This helped protect it from invaders throughout history.
Medieval Times and the Cathedral
During the Middle Ages, Laon became a very powerful city. It was a center for learning and religion. The most famous building from this time is the incredible Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Laon. It's a huge Gothic church built in the 12th and 13th centuries.
The cathedral is known for its tall towers and detailed sculptures. Look closely, and you might spot some stone oxen carved into the towers! Legend says these oxen helped pull the stones up the steep hill to build the cathedral.
Underground Passages
Laon also has a network of old underground passages and cellars. These were used for many things over the centuries, like storing goods or even as shelters during wars. Exploring these hidden tunnels gives you a glimpse into the city's past.
Life in Laon Today
Today, Laon is a lively city with a population of over 25,000 people. It combines its rich history with modern life. The city center is still on the hilltop, offering amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
Getting Around Laon
Because Laon is on a hill, getting to the upper town can be a climb! For many years, there was a special cable car system called a funicular that helped people travel up and down. It was a fun and unique way to see the city.
Local Government
As the prefecture of the Aisne department, Laon is where many important government offices are located. The city is led by a mayor, who is elected by the people. The mayor helps manage the city's services and plans for its future.
Sister Cities
Laon has special friendships with other cities around the world. These are called "sister cities" or "twinned cities." It means they share cultural exchanges and friendly visits. Laon is twinned with:
Soltau, Germany
Winchester, England
Images for kids
-
Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Laon
-
Gate of Bouvelle Court, Rue Serurier, Laon (France)
-
Rue Châtelaine
-
The funicular, view from the upper town.
-
Laon station from the upper town
-
The cathedral, western front
-
The cathedral, interior
-
View from the lower city, with the cathedral in the background and St John the Baptist de Vaux in the foreground
-
Porte d’Ardon and city walls
-
St Martin's church
-
Templars chapel
-
St Martin's church
-
Town square, Laon, France
-
Porte De La Cour De La Bouvelle (Medieval Architecture, XV)
-
Centre Hospitalier de Laon, France
-
Maison des Arts et Loisirs, Laon, France
.jpg)
See also
In Spanish: Laón para niños
