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Laàs
The town hall of Laàs
The town hall of Laàs
Coat of arms of Laàs
Coat of arms
Laàs is located in France
Laàs
Laàs
Location in France
Laàs is located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Laàs
Laàs
Location in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Country France
Region Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Department Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Arrondissement Oloron-Sainte-Marie
Canton Orthez et Terres des Gaves et du Sel
Area
1
6.46 km2 (2.49 sq mi)
Population
 (2021)
138
 • Density 21.36/km2 (55.33/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+01:00 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+02:00 (CEST)
INSEE/Postal code
64287 /64390
Elevation 63–235 m (207–771 ft)
(avg. 142 m or 466 ft)
1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

Laàs is a small town in south-western France. It is located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region. A "commune" is like a local government area, similar to a small town or village.

Laàs is surrounded by other small villages. To the north, you'll find Orriule. Andrein is to the north-west, and Narp is to the east. To the west is Barraute-Camu, and to the south is Montfort.

This town is famous for something very unusual. It has declared itself independent from France! It calls itself the Principality of Laàs en Béarn.

Le Château de Laàs
Le Château de Laàs

The Principality of Laàs

The Principality of Laàs en Béarn is a special idea started by the mayor of Laàs, Jacques Pédehontaà. He first suggested this in August 2011. His goal was to protest against new rules from the French government.

Why Laàs Declared Independence

The mayor wanted to show how he felt about the government's plans. These plans would change how towns are managed. By declaring independence, he hoped to draw attention to his concerns. It was a unique way to protest.

Becoming a Principality

In May 2014, the principality became a registered non-profit group. This means it's an official organization that doesn't aim to make money. It was registered in the Prefecture of Pau, which is a government office.

In August 2014, the principality shared some exciting plans. These included creating a boulevard similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This would be a fun attraction for visitors.

Flag of the Principality of Laàs
Original flag of the Principality of Laàs

Official Independence Day

The Principality of Laàs officially declared its independence on January 1, 2015. This made it a very unique place in France. It's a small town with a big idea!

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