Le Mans, city, northern France, capital of Sarthe Department, on the Sarthe River. It is an important rail and industrial center, with factories manufacturing motor vehicles, farm and railroad machinery, chemicals, textiles, and processed food. Points of interest include the Cathedral of Saint Julien (begun 11th century) and the Church of Notre Dame de la Couture (begun 10th century). Located here is the University of Maine (1969). A noted 24-hour automobile race held annually nearby takes its name from Le Mans.
Founded in pre-Roman times, Le Mans was captured by William the Conqueror in 1063. It later suffered many sieges during the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) between England and France. The Germans occupied the city during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) and again during World War II. Population (1999) 146,105.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2001 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Le Mans Information info
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