Saint-Germain-des-Fossés facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés
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Town hall
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 Saint-Germain-des-Fossés
Location in France
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés
Location in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
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| Country | France | |
| Region | Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes | |
| Department | Allier | |
| Arrondissement | Vichy | |
| Canton | Varennes-sur-Allier | |
| Intercommunality | Vichy Val d'Allier | |
| Area
1
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8.3 km2 (3.2 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2008)
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3,667 | |
| • Density | 441.8/km2 (1,144/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
| INSEE/Postal code |
03236 /03260
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| Elevation | 239–365 m (784–1,198 ft) (avg. 255 m or 837 ft) |
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| 1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | ||
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is a small town, also known as a commune, located in the central part of France. It is found in the Allier department. A department is like a county or a region within France.
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is known for its quiet, friendly atmosphere. It's a place where people live and work, contributing to the local community. The town is part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, which is famous for its beautiful landscapes and history.
Contents
Discovering Saint-Germain-des-Fossés
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is a charming commune with a rich history. It is situated near the Allier River, which is one of the longest rivers in France. The town's name, "des Fossés," means "of the ditches," possibly referring to old fortifications or natural features around the area.
What is a Commune?
In France, a commune is the smallest administrative division. Think of it like a local town or village. Each commune has its own mayor and local government. These governments help manage things like schools, roads, and local services for the people living there.
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is one of many communes in France. It has a population of around 3,600 people, making it a medium-sized town. The mayor helps make decisions for the town and its residents.
Geography and Location
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is located in the Allier department. This department is in the Auvergne region, which is known for its volcanic landscapes and green valleys. The town is about 255 meters (836 feet) above sea level.
The area around Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is mostly rural. This means there are many farms and natural spaces. The town is also close to larger cities like Vichy, which is famous for its thermal springs.
How People Live Here
Life in Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is generally peaceful. Many residents work in local businesses or agriculture. The town has basic services like schools, shops, and a town hall. The town hall, shown in the image, is where the local government operates.
The people of Saint-Germain-des-Fossés enjoy a quiet lifestyle. They have access to the natural beauty of the Allier department. This includes forests, rivers, and hills, which are great for outdoor activities.
Local Government and Services
The town is governed by a mayor and a municipal council. These elected officials work to improve the town for its residents. They manage the budget and decide on local projects.
The mayor, Michel Guyot, served from 2008 to 2014. He worked with the council to provide services to the community. These services include maintaining public spaces and supporting local events.
Connecting with Neighbors
Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is part of a larger group of communes called "Vichy Val d'Allier." This group works together on bigger projects. For example, they might share resources for public transport or waste management.
This cooperation helps smaller towns like Saint-Germain-des-Fossés benefit from shared services. It also helps them grow and develop together.
History of the Town
The history of Saint-Germain-des-Fossés dates back many centuries. Like many towns in France, it likely grew around a church or a fortified settlement. The name "Saint-Germain" often refers to a saint, suggesting an early religious influence.
Over time, the town developed as a local center for trade and community life. Its location near the Allier River would have been important for transport and resources in the past.
What to See in Town
While Saint-Germain-des-Fossés is a small town, it has its own unique charm. Visitors can see the town hall, which is an important building. The town also has local churches and other historical buildings.
The surrounding countryside offers beautiful views and opportunities for walks. It's a great place to experience the quiet beauty of rural France.
Images for kids
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The coat of arms for Saint-Germain-des-Fossés
See also
Read about Saint-Germain-des-Fossés in Spanish for kids: Saint-Germain-des-Fossés para niños
