Le Mans: More than 24 hours — rich historical legacy with modern development

Le Mans is a city located in the Sarthe department in the Pays de la Loire region of northwestern France. It is perhaps best known globally for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world’s oldest active endurance sports car race, which has been held annually since 1923. This race, organized by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), takes place on the Circuit de la Sarthe, a semi-permanent race course renowned for its grueling challenge and rich history in motorsports.

Back to Roman times

Historically, Le Mans is steeped in heritage and culture. The city has its roots in Roman times, evidenced by the remnants of the Roman walls, some of the best-preserved in France. The old town, known as the Cité Plantagenêt or Vieux Mans, is a picturesque area with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Saint-Julien Cathedral. The cathedral, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, is noted for its stunning stained glass windows and unique architectural features.

Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans

Le Mans was also significant during the Middle Ages and played a pivotal role in the Plantagenet Empire. Geoffrey Plantagenet, Count of Anjou, is buried in the Saint-Julien Cathedral, and his son, Henry II of England, was born in Le Mans. The city’s medieval heritage is celebrated with an annual event called La Nuit des Chimères, where the old town is illuminated with spectacular light projections telling the stories of its past.

Modern-day Le Mans is a vibrant city with a population of about 150,000. It is a hub of industry and education, with a growing economy based on manufacturing, technology, and services. The University of Maine, located in Le Mans, contributes to the city’s educational and cultural dynamism.
Le Mans is also known for its green spaces and parks, such as the Jardin des Plantes and the Arche de la Nature, a large natural area on the outskirts of the city that offers a variety of outdoor activities. The Sarthe River runs through the city, providing scenic views and opportunities for boating and fishing.

The city has a robust cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and festivals. The Musée de Tessé, for instance, houses a collection of fine arts, including works by Italian, Flemish, and French artists, as well as an Egyptian gallery with a reconstructed tomb.

And of course, there’s the Bugatti Circuit, also known as Circuit Bugatti, is a renowned motorsport race track located in Le Mans. It is part of the larger Circuit de la Sarthe, which is famous for hosting the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The Bugatti Circuit, however, is a permanent race track that is used for various motorsport events throughout the year, including the French Grand Prix, MotoGP, and other high-profile racing competitions.

The Bugatti Circuit was inaugurated in 1966 and is named after Ettore Bugatti, the founder of the iconic Bugatti automobile brand. The track layout is 4.185 kilometers (2.599 miles) long and features a combination of fast straights, tight corners, and technical sections that challenge drivers and riders alike. The Bugatti Circuit has a seating capacity that accommodates tens of thousands of spectators, with excellent views of key sections of the track. The grandstands and viewing areas are strategically placed to offer fans an immersive experience, whether they are watching a MotoGP race or a car racing event.

Le Mans is well-connected by transport, with high-speed TGV trains linking it to Paris in about an hour, making it an accessible destination for both tourists and business travelers. The city's tramway and bus systems provide efficient public transportation within the city.

Overall, Le Mans is a city that beautifully balances its rich historical legacy with modern development, offering a diverse array of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities.

Image credits:
All images copyright author Mike Werner

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER