Haute-Garonne
WELCOME TO Haute-Garonne
Entry Into Department
Toulouse
6,309.3 km2
1.4 million
French
Popular
Geography and Tourist Attractions
Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
Pyrenees Mountains
Canal du Midi
Toulouse
Political
Economy and Government
Haute-Garonne is a department in the Occitanie region of southwestern France with a population of over 1.3 million people. The local economy of Haute-Garonne is diverse, with major sectors including aerospace, information technology, biotechnology, and agriculture. The city of Toulouse, which is the largest city and capital of the department, is known as the "aerospace capital of Europe" and is home to the headquarters of major aerospace companies such as Airbus and Thales.
The government of Haute-Garonne is structured as a departmental council, which is responsible for managing local services and infrastructure. The council is composed of 54 members who are elected by popular vote every six years. The current president of the departmental council is Georges Méric.
The local government of Haute-Garonne has invested heavily in infrastructure projects, particularly in the area of transportation. The department is well-connected by rail and highway networks, and Toulouse has a major international airport. The government has also focused on promoting sustainable development, with initiatives to encourage renewable energy, green building, and eco-tourism.
Overall, the combination of a diverse economy and strong government leadership has contributed to the economic growth and stability of Haute-Garonne in recent years.
History
History and Culture
Haute-Garonne has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and festivals. The region was inhabited by the Gauls in ancient times, and later became part of the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, it was a center of the Cathar religion and was heavily influenced by the culture of Occitania.
The department is home to numerous historic buildings and landmarks, including the Basilica of St. Sernin in Toulouse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other notable sites include the Chateau de Merville, the Canal du Midi, and the Cité de l'Espace, a space museum and theme park.
The local culture of Haute-Garonne is vibrant and diverse, with a strong tradition of festivals and celebrations. The region is known for its gastronomy, including dishes such as cassoulet, a hearty stew made with white beans, pork, and sausage. The department also has a thriving music scene, with a variety of venues and festivals showcasing jazz, classical, and contemporary music.
In addition, the local culture of Haute-Garonne is heavily influenced by the Occitan language and culture. Occitan is a Romance language spoken in southern France and is the traditional language of Occitania. The local government has taken steps to promote and preserve the Occitan language and culture, including the creation of cultural centers and language courses.