Épinal is a commune of northeastern France, préfecture (capital) of the Vosges département. Population (1999): 38,207; residents are known as Spinaliens.
It is situated on the Moselle river, 60 km south of Nancy.
SightsThe old town centre features the Place des Vosges, the Chapitre district, Saint-Maurice's Basilica, medieval castle remains and the Roman House (XI and XIII c). It is also known for its parks and gardens.
There are major fortifications, extended and maintained until the early 20th century.
EconomyÉpinal is best known for the 'Images d'Epinal' the popular prints created by a local company, the Imagerie d'Epinal, formerly known as the Imagerie Pellerin. These stencil-colored woodcuts of military subjects, Napoleonic history, storybook characters and other folk themes were widely distributed throughout the 19th century. The company still exists today, and still uses its hand-operated presses to produce the antique images. Other local industries include textiles, metals, morocco leather, precision instruments, and bicycles. There is a school of textile weaving.
Twin townsÉpinal participates in town twinning to foster good international relations. Its current partners include:
