Le Pin‑au‑Haras is a commune in the Orne department in the region of Normandy, north‑western France. It is best known for hosting the Haras National du Pin, a historic state‑run stud farm often referred to as the “Versailles of the horse.”
Geography
Le Pin‑au‑Haras covers an area of approximately 16 km² (6.2 sq mi) and is situated about 30 km north‑west of Alençon and 120 km west of Paris. The commune lies within the Pays d'Auge, a hilly, agricultural landscape characterized by pastureland, mixed forests, and several small streams that feed into the River Thar. The elevation ranges from roughly 150 m to 250 m above sea level.
Administration
- Arrondissement: Alençon
- Canton: Argentan‑2
- Intercommunality: Argentan Intercom
- INSEE code: 61327
- Postal code: 61700
- Mayor (2020–2026): [Name not provided in source]
Demographics
According to the most recent census data available from the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), the commune had a population of about 1 200 inhabitants. The population density is therefore low, reflecting the rural character of the area.
History
The name “Le Pin‑au‑Haras” combines a reference to the pine tree (pin) and the presence of a “haras” (stud farm). The Haras National du Pin was established in 1715 by King Louis XIV to serve as the central stud for the French cavalry. After periods of decline and closure during the French Revolution and later wars, the facility was revived in the 19th century under the direction of the French Ministry of Agriculture. The commune itself developed around the stud farm and the associated equestrian activities.
Economy
The local economy is primarily agricultural, with dairy farming and crop cultivation forming the economic base. The Haras National du Pin is a major employer and a source of tourism revenue. The stud farm conducts breeding, training, and public exhibitions of French breeds, especially the Selle Français and the Percheron. Visitors also attend the on‑site museum and the annual “Fête du Haras,” which showcases equestrian demonstrations.
Landmarks and Cultural Sites
- Haras National du Pin – The historic stud farm includes a classic 18th‑century château, extensive stabling facilities, training tracks, and an equestrian museum. It is classified as a historic monument and is managed by the French Ministry of Agriculture.
- Église Saint‑Pierre – A parish church dating mainly from the 19th century, featuring modest neo‑Gothic elements.
- Parc du Haras – Public grounds surrounding the stud farm, offering walking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Transportation
Le Pin‑au‑Haras is accessible via the D231 departmental road, which connects the commune to the nearby towns of Argentan and Flers. The nearest railway station is in Argentan, providing regional TER services to larger urban centers such as Caen and Le Mans. Public bus routes operate intermittently between the commune and surrounding villages.
Education
The commune maintains a primary school (école primaire) that serves local children. Secondary education facilities are located in the neighboring towns of Argentan and Flers.
Notable Events
- Annual Salon du Cheval – A seasonal exhibition organized by the Haras National du Pin, attracting participants from across France and Europe.
- Equestrian competitions – Various national and regional riding events are held on the stud’s training grounds.
See also
- Haras National du Pin
- Communes of the Orne department
References
- Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (INSEE), “Populations légales 2019 – Commune de Le Pin‑au‑Haras (61327).”
- Ministère de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation, “Le Haras National du Pin – Historique.”
- Préfecture de l’Orne, “Liste des maires et des mandats municipaux.”
All information presented is based on publicly available governmental and institutional sources.
