Montpellier

Montpellier is a city in southern France, the prefecture of the Hérault department in the Occitanie region. It lies near the Mediterranean coast and serves as a major center for education, health care, and culture.

Its history reaches back to antiquity, and in the Middle Ages it grew as a trading town. The University of Montpellier, founded in 1220, is one of Europe’s oldest and has long been renowned for medicine and law.

The historic center, known as l'Écusson, features narrow streets and Place de la Comédie. Landmarks include Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Peyrou promenade, the Saint-Clément aqueduct, and the Jardin des Plantes, founded in 1593. The Antigone district, designed by Ricardo Bofill in the late 20th century, provides a striking modern contrast.

Cultural institutions include the Musée Fabre, as well as a large university research community and a major hospital complex, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier.

The economy centers on higher education, health, biotechnology, and digital technology. Montpellier is served by a tram network, Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, and high-speed rail connections to Paris and other cities.

The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild winters, and abundant sunshine.