Niort

Niort is a commune and the prefecture of the Deux-Sèvres department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of western France. It lies on the Sèvre Niortaise river, near the marshlands of the Marais Poitevin, and functions as an administrative and economic hub for the area. The city and its metropolitan area host a population in the tens of thousands, with the wider urban area significantly larger.

Historically, Niort has roots dating back to Gallo-Roman times and grew into an important medieval town. Its historic center preserves narrow streets, a concentration of half-timbered houses, and the Donjon de Niort, a well-known medieval keep. Over the centuries, Niort developed as a commercial and administrative center for the region.

Economy, culture, and institutions: Niort is a major center for insurance and finance in France, hosting prominent mutual insurers such as MACIF and MAIF. The service sector, administration, and regional commerce constitute the core of the local economy. Cultural institutions include the Musée Bernard d'Agesci, which houses fine arts and natural-history collections, along with various churches and historic buildings that reflect the city’s diverse heritage.

Transport and geography: Niort is served by Niort railway station on the Paris–Bordeaux line, with regional services connecting to major cities. It is accessible by road via regional and national highways and serves as a transportation hub for western Nouvelle-Aquitaine, linking the city with the surrounding marshalling areas and coastal regions.