Guide to Moselle and Properties in Department 57

Moselle is a department located in the eastern part of France, within the region of Grand-Est. It is the most populated department within the region, with a rich history and culture. The department is named after the Moselle River, a tributary of the Rhine and runs through the western part of the department. Moselle is bordered by the departments of Meurthe-et-Moselle and Bas-Rhin, Germany (states of Saarland and Rhineland-Palatinate) and Luxembourg in the north. The department (number 57) is geographically organised around the Moselle Valley, home to parts of Parc naturel régional de Lorraine. Moselle was historically known as a region of conflict between Alsace and the north, and it remained relatively underdeveloped until the 19th century. As a result, it was less urbanised and populated than other regions at the time. However, heavy industrialisation linked to iron deposits in Lorraine has transformed the environment, creating artificial valleys and river banks. To this end, industries have acquired vast land holdings in the valleys by buying land from agriculturists and profiting from water rights.

Celebrating Tradition and Culture

Despite the industrialisation, Moselle has preserved many local traditions, with the eastern part of the department being particularly notable. The Kirb festivals, celebrated in October in rural areas, are a great example. The Mardi Gras parades in Sarreguemines are also a significant cultural event, as is the August Mirabelle festival in Metz, which features a variety of cultural activities. In Metz, you can also find the Opéra-Théâtre de Metz, the oldest active theatre in France, having continuously operated since the 18th century. The city boasts several concert halls that offer diverse events, such as comedy shows and symphony orchestras.

Key Information about Moselle

• Main City/Prefecture: Metz
• Nearest Airport: Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (approx. 25 km)
• Population: Around 1.04 million (as of the latest census)
• Area: 6,216 sq. kilometres and 2,400 sq. miles
• Landmark: Metz Cathedral (Saint-Étienne), famous for its stunning stained glass windows.
• Number of Tourists per Year: Approx. 3 million, attracted by its cultural sites, German-French heritage and nature parks.