Poitou-Charentes is a former administrative region in western France, now part of the larger Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It was created in 1956 from the ancient provinces of Poitou and Charentes, covering an area of about 25,809 km2.
Historically, Poitou was known for its role in the Hundred Years' War, where it was contested between the English and French crowns. The region was also a significant part of Eleanor of Aquitaine's dowry when she married Louis VII of France, and later Henry II of England. During the French Revolution, Poitou-Charentes saw significant turmoil, with the Vendée uprising against the revolutionary government being particularly noted.
The modern administrative region was established post-World War II as part of France's decentralization efforts. In 2016, it was merged with Aquitaine and Limousin to form Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Poitou-Charentes is characterized by diverse landscapes:
The region is known for:
The region boasts several cultural highlights: