La Chapelle-d'Andaine is a former commune in the Orne department in the Normandy region of north‑western France. It was merged into the new commune of La Chapelle-d'Andaine on 1 January 2016 as part of a nationwide territorial reform that reduced the number of communes.
Geography
The former commune was situated in the Pays d'Andaine, an area characterized by gently rolling hills, mixed agricultural lands, and proximity to the Forêt d'Andaine (Andaine Forest). The elevation ranges from approximately 150 to 250 metres above sea level, and the locality covers an area of about 13 km². Its geographic coordinates place it roughly 30 km north‑east of Alençon, the prefecture of the Orne department.
Administration
Before the merger, La Chapelle-d'Andaine belonged to the arrondissement of Alençon and the canton of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne. The INSEE code assigned to the commune was 61085, and its postal code was 61420. Following the 2016 consolidation, administrative responsibilities were transferred to the new commune’s council.
Demographics
According to the latest population figures before the merger (2015), the commune had approximately 470 inhabitants, yielding a population density of around 36 inhabitants per km². The demographic profile was typical of rural Normandy, with a balanced age distribution and a predominance of agricultural occupations.
History
The name “La Chapelle-d'Andaine” reflects the historical presence of a chapel dedicated to a local saint, situated near the Andaine forest. The settlement traces its origins to the medieval period, with records mentioning a chapel and hamlet in the 12th century. Over the centuries, the area remained primarily agrarian, shifting gradually toward mixed farming and forestry. The 2016 merger was part of a broader French governmental effort to streamline local governance and improve the delivery of public services.
Economy and Land Use
The local economy was traditionally based on agriculture, with cereal cultivation, dairy farming, and livestock rearing. The surrounding forest supported timber extraction and related activities. Small-scale tourism—centered on the natural landscape and historic chapel—contributed modestly to the local economy.
Cultural and Heritage Sites
- The Chapel of Saint‑Loup: The titular chapel, dating from the 13th century, is a modest stone structure featuring Romanesque architectural elements.
- Manor Houses: Several 18th‑century farmsteads and manorial houses are present in the surrounding countryside, representative of the region’s rural heritage.
Transportation
The locality is accessed via departmental roads linking it to nearby towns such as Bagnoles-de-l'Orne and Alençon. Public transport options are limited, reflecting its rural character. The nearest major railway station is in Alençon.
References
- INSEE (National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies), population and administrative data.
- Prefectural decree of 30 November 2015 establishing the merger of communes in the Orne department.
This entry reflects information compiled from French governmental and statistical sources up to the year 2023.