Mandon

Mandon is a small commune located in the Haute-Marne department in the Grand Est region of northeastern France. The municipality covers an area of 6.3 square kilometres and is situated at an elevation that ranges from 245 to 318 metres above sea level. The village is positioned on the banks of the Meuse valley and is accessible via the departmental road D21, connecting it to the larger nearby town of Chaumont.

The history of Mandon dates back to the early medieval period, with the first documented mention appearing in the 12th‑century charters of the Abbey of Saint-Maur. Over the centuries the village has been primarily agricultural, with small-scale farming of cereals and pasture lands dominating the local economy. During the French Revolution, the communal administrative structure was reorganised, and Mandon became part of the newly created Haute‑Marne department in 1790.

In contemporary times, Mandon retains a predominantly rural character, with most residents employed in agriculture or commuting to larger towns for work. The population has shown a slight decline over the past century, from a peak of approximately 300 inhabitants in 1960 to about 140 residents in recent estimates. The communal council, headed by the mayor, oversees local services, maintenance of public spaces, and the preservation of the village's cultural heritage. Local events occasionally celebrate traditional festivals linked to the agricultural calendar. The commune is also notable for its proximity to the Parc naturel régional de la Forêt d'Orient, a protected area that offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and tourism.