Orne

department, France

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July 1, 2026

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Orne is a department in the Normandy region of northern France. It is characterized by a humid climate and a predominantly rural landscape, with agriculture being a significant economic activity, particularly animal husbandry, dairying, and the production of cheese like Camembert. The region is also known for raising horses.1

The Orne River flows through the department and is 94 miles (152 km) long, emptying into the English Channel. The department's highest point is in the Forest d’Écouves. Historically, Orne was part of the duchy of Normandy and was incorporated into France in 1525. The town of Alençon, known for its lace production, is located in Orne and serves as an administrative center.21345

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Basse-Normandie
…encompassed the northwestern départements of Orne, Calvados, and Manche. The northern and western shores of the region are washed by the English Channel. In 2016 the Basse-Normandie région was joined with the région of Haute-Normandie to form the new administrative entity of Normandy.
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…encompassed the northwestern départements of Orne, Calvados, and Manche. The northern and western shores of the region are washed by the English Channel. In 2016 the Basse-Normandie région was joined with the région of Haute-Normandie to form the new administrative entity of Normandy.
Read More