AuvergneRhôneAlpes

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is an administrative region of France created on January 1, 2016, by merging the former regions of Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes as part of a nationwide territorial reform. Its regional capital is Lyon, which serves as the region’s economic, cultural, and administrative center.

Geographically, the region is located in eastern-central France, extending from the western lobe of the Massif Central to the eastern edge of the French Alps. The Rhône River runs through Lyon and the region encompasses diverse landscapes, including volcanic zones in Auvergne, mountain massifs, and productive river valleys. It hosts a variety of climates and natural environments, ranging from alpine terrain to rural plateaus and valleys.

Administratively, the region is divided into 12 departments: Ain, Allier, Ardèche, Cantal, Drôme, Haute-Loire, Isère, Loire, Puy-de-Dôme, Rhône, Savoie, and Haute-Savoie. Lyon is the principal city, while Saint-Étienne, Grenoble, Clermont-Ferrand, and Annecy are among its major urban centers.

Economy and demography, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is one of France’s most populous and economically significant regions. It benefits from a diversified economy that includes manufacturing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, technology, agriculture, and services. The region is also prominent in tourism, with urban culture in Lyon and alpine and ski tourism in the Savoy and Rhône-Alpes areas.

Culture and transport are notable features. The region is renowned for Lyon’s gastronomy and culinary tradition, Beaujolais wine, and extensive mountain tourism. It has major transport links, including Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport and high-speed rail connections that link the region to Paris and other cities.