Grenoble

Grenoble is a city in southeastern France, the prefecture of the Isère department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It sits at the foot of the French Alps, in a valley on the Isère River, between the Chartreuse and Belledonne ranges.

Historically one of France's oldest cities, Grenoble originated as the Gallic settlement Cularo, became Gratianopolis under the Romans, and later adopted the name Grenoble. The city expanded as an industrial center in the 18th and 19th centuries, notably in silk, and since the mid-20th century has grown into a major hub of science and high technology. The University of Grenoble was established in the 14th century and today continues as Université Grenoble Alpes.

Economy and education: Grenoble hosts research institutions such as CNRS and CEA-Leti, along with Université Grenoble Alpes, with strengths in microelectronics, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and energy. The surrounding metropolitan area is a center for technology companies and startups.

Cultural and urban landmarks: The Bastille fortress overlooks the city and is connected by a cable car; Grenoble has a tram network, rail connections, and Grenoble Alpes–Isère Airport. Cultural institutions include the Musée de Grenoble (art) and the Musée dauphinois (history).

Notable people and population: The 19th-century writer Stendhal was born in Grenoble. The city proper has about 160,000 residents, with roughly 450,000 in the metropolitan area.