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France is known for its geographical and cultural diversity, but did you know that there is a mysterious department, department 98 ? In this article, we will delve into the world of French departments to discover this intriguing enigma. From the overseas departments to the most and least populated departments, we will explore the particularities of these vital entities of France. Hold on tight, because this investigation into Department 98 promises to be exciting!
Table of contents
The 98th department of France: a riddle to solve
When we closely examine the map of France and its administrative division, an interesting and curious fact emerges: the absence of the department numbered 98. So, what is really happening with this so-called 98th department?
He's important to know the identification mechanism of French departments to understand this situation. French departments are identified by two-digit numbers ranging from 01 to 95. Beyond 95, the numbers 96 and 97 were reserved for overseas territories until 1957.
Today, each overseas department has its own code from 971 (for Guadeloupe) to 976 (for Mayotte).
Le number 98 is curiously absent in this system, given that it was never officially assigned to any French department.
Thus, department 98 does not exist in France. Indeed, France has 101 metropolitan and overseas departments, ranging from 01 for Ain to 976 for Mayotte.
Furthermore, if we were to extrapolate, the number 98 could potentially be used for a new territorial establishment or a merger of two or more existing departments.
This is a possibility, although there are currently no signs or initiatives in this direction. After all, France continues without any problem with its 101 departments without the mysterious department 98.
| Country | France |
| Type | local authority administrative district |
| Upper division | region |
| Lower division | borough town |
| Number of subdivisions | 94 communities 101 constituencies (2020) |
| Creation | 1789: constituency 1871: community |
French departments: vital entities
Taking an interest in the French departments is part of a dive into a rich and fascinating history. Each region, each department has a Gewurztraminer in its own way to its wine which says a lot about its identity, its past and its struggles. In addition, the French departments are essential to the identity of France, its territorial distribution and its administrative structure. For visitors or new residents, knowledge of these territorial subdivisions allows for better navigation across the country.
La understanding of departments is an important key, whether one is looking to settle in a new place or explore the varied landscapes of this country this exquisite nation. Each department plays a specific role in the French economy, the tourism industry and the cultural panorama. They are home to typical towns, picturesque landscapes, precious monuments and fascinating legends.
Specifically, boundaries between departments are put in place for specific purposes. These include resource management, control of local administration and the organization of elective units. These boundaries set by a decree in the Council of State create a specific order, making possible the efficient organization of public services, infrastructure and resources. It is therefore crucial to note that these limits are not arbitrary, but serve very specific objectives for the nation as a whole.
Department 98, although currently non-existent, could one day become an integral part of this complex web, bringing with it its own history, its struggles and a new contribution to the identity of France.
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The overseas departments of France: a vast expanse
Overseas departments (SUN) of France are in fact diversified et unique. These departments, located in several parts of the world, are a dazzling reflection of the variety and cultural richness of France. Whether it is the Caribbean with Guadeloupe and Martinique, the Indian Ocean with Reunion and Mayotte, or South America with French Guiana, each DOM has its own distinction and personal charm.
These departments, while geographically distant from mainland France, are both picturesque and innovative, an exquisite blend of tradition and modernity. For example, Guadeloupe, one of the largest overseas departments, covers 1 km². But its greatness is not only in terms of territory. This Caribbean island paradise is much more than just a tropical landscape with its pristine beaches. Her cultural wealth and its historical heritage are as vast as its territory.
Despite its large surface area, Guadeloupe is only the 51st largest department in terms of population, demonstrating that population density does not necessarily reflect the height or prosperity of a place.
The overseas departments of France are not simply administrative entities, they are parcels of a diversified heritage and a testimony to the multiple dimensions of France.
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The most and least populated departments of France
Demographic diversity between the departments of France is a reality that deserves attention. The case of the North and Lozère is the perfect illustration of this. The north of france, with its rich industrial heritage, has become the stronghold of millions of people over time. Indeed, with a population of approximately 2,6 million inhabitants, the North can undoubtedly boast of being the most populous department in France.
In contrast, Lozère, nestled in the rich and green natural region of Margeride, is home to a marginal population of almost 76,000 individuals. The rural and mountainous character of Lozère, very different from the hustle and bustle of the North, largely explains its low density.
Now consider the Gironde. It is undoubtedly an attractive department, perhaps because of its world-famous wine, or its metropolis, Bordeaux, often described as the “pearl of Aquitaine”. This is evidenced by the tremendous demographic growth of 15.1% between 2010 and 2018 experienced by this region, a percentage which exceeds that of many other metropolitan departments.
It should also be noted that France has 96 departments in mainland France, diversely populated, each contributing to shaping the cultural and economic variety of our country.
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The departments with the greatest number of municipalities
Do you know the true meaning of diversity? Take a moment to think about Calvados. With its 538 municipalities, it is a department which combines diversity made up of people from different backgrounds and proximity. Unlike other larger departments, its small size allows for a closer link between municipalities, thus promoting the exchange of ideas and the adoption of best practices.
You may wonder how the Calvados to other departments in terms of number of municipalities? In France, Calvados is, without a doubt, a champion. To help you understand, the second department with the most municipalities is Aisne with 816 municipalities. That's about 50% more!
And what about having a young and dynamic population? If this is what you are looking for, the Seine-Saint-Denis is the place for you. Its median age is only 34,8 years, which makes it the youngest of the French departments. This means incalculable potential for innovation and growth. It is a department in constant change which truly represents the future of the country.
Can you imagine how inspiring it must be to live in a place where there is always something new to discover, learn and explore? There Seine-Saint-Denis promises precisely that and much more.
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A Continuous Exploration
Each French department has its own treasures. Whether it's their historical heritage, their distinct culinary traditions, their striking topography, or their stories of innovation and resilience, there's always a new side to discover.
For example, the North part is perhaps the most populated department, but what about its cultural and industrial wealth? And let's never underestimate Lozère, with its low number of inhabitants. Instead, we should be fascinated by the way it has preserved its mountainous landscapes and rural tranquility.
La Seine-Saint-Denis is strong from her youth. The vitality of its population is a driver of innovation and dynamism. In contrast with the Calvados, with its 538 municipalities, one could imagine the constant dialogue between them, each municipality bringing its own color to the picture.
And let's not forget our overseas departments. They constitute exciting forays towards other climates, other landscapes, towards a part of exoticism within our republic itself.
In fact, the absence of department 98 reminds us how incomplete our knowledge of French departments is. It encourages us to continue exploring, to never stop marveling at the riches that our country holds.
So whether you continue your journey in person, through books, or on the Internet, remember to fully appreciate each department for what it offers. After all, each department is an integral part of what makes France’s magnificent diversity.
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FAQ
The overseas departments of France are Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte and Guyana.
France has 101 departments in total, including both mainland France and overseas territories.
No, department 98 does not exist in France. France has 101 departments.
The largest department of France is Guadeloupe, with an area of 1 km².
