Marmande

Marmande is a commune in southwestern France, located in the Lot-et-Garonne department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It lies in the Garonne valley and serves as an agricultural and market town for the surrounding rural area. The town has medieval origins and developed around fortifications, with historical sites that reflect its long-standing role as a local hub.

Today Marmande's economy is centered on agriculture, horticulture, and food processing. The surrounding countryside is known for fruit and vegetable production, and the town hosts markets and fairs that showcase regional specialties. The Marmande tomato, a large, flattened tomato variety named after the town, is among the best-known products associated with the region and is widely cultivated in France and other countries.

As of the latest counts, Marmande has a population of around 18,000 residents. The town provides cultural facilities, schools, and services for residents and acts as a service center for nearby communes. It is linked to the broader region by road and rail, with connections to larger urban centers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Notable features in Marmande include historic streets, a central market square, and churches and monuments that reflect its historical development. The Marmande tomato continues to be celebrated in local cuisine, markets, and agricultural fairs, illustrating the town's longstanding ties to farming.