Isse

Issé is a commune located in the Loire‑Atlantique department in western France, approximately 10 kilometres north‑east of the city of Nantes. It is part of the Pays de la Loire region and falls within the administrative arrondissement of Châteaubriant‑Ancenis. The commune covers an area of about 15 square kilometres and is situated on relatively flat terrain, with elevations ranging from 20 to 58 metres above sea level.

The population of Issé has gradually increased over recent decades, reaching roughly 7,500 inhabitants according to the most recent census data. The local economy is diversified, combining agricultural activities—particularly cereal cultivation and viticulture—with small‑scale manufacturing and service enterprises. Proximity to Nantes has encouraged residential development, making Issé a commuter town for those working in the metropolitan area.

Historically, Issé dates back to the medieval period and was mentioned in documents from the 12th century. The commune’s name is believed to derive from an Old French term related to a settlement near a forested area. Architectural heritage includes the Saint‑Gilles church, a Romanesque structure that was extensively restored in the 19th century, and a number of traditional manor houses that reflect the region’s rural aristocratic past.

Cultural life in Issé is centred on communal events such as the annual fête du village, which showcases local food, music, and crafts. The municipality maintains several public amenities, including a library, a sports complex, and primary schools, while secondary education is provided in nearby larger towns.

Transportation links are facilitated by the A11 autoroute, which passes close to the commune, and by regional bus services that connect Issé to Nantes and surrounding settlements. The combination of historical character, modest growth, and convenient access to the urban centre makes Issé a representative example of the small communes that contribute to the social and economic fabric of the Loire‑Atlantique department.