An industrialized city and area of approximately 250,000 people and a fresh food and flower market center, the city traces its roots to early Roman times. The site of a massive and ancient Chateau, the city is also noted for the impressive twin-spired, 12th century Cathedral of Saint Maurice.
A center of learning, Angers boasts two renowned universities, one of which is host to the American Library in Angers. Its education and research institutes are the driving force behind the city's science and technology industries. Angers calls itself the most flowered city in Europe.
History
The earliest inhabitants were the Andecavi, a Gallic tribe that was overrun by the Romans. Once the capital of the historic province of Anjou, beginning in the 9th century, the city and the region was run by a powerful family of feudal lords. In the 12th century, it became part of the Angevin empire of the Plantagenet Kings of England. During this time, the Hospital of Saint Jean was built in Angers by King Henry II of England. The edifice still stands to this day and houses an important museum. In 1204, it was conquered by King Philippe II.
The city is the birthplace of: