Mouterre‑Silly is a commune in the Vienne department of the Nouvelle‑Aquitaine region in western France. Situated approximately 30 km southeast of Poitiers, it falls within the arrondissement of Montmorillon and the canton of Lussac-les‑Châteaux. The commune is part of the intercommunality known as the Communauté de communes du Pays Loudunais.
Geography
The territory of Mouterre‑Silly covers an area of 28.27 km². Its elevation ranges from 73 m to 146 m above sea level, with the average elevation being around 100 m. The landscape is characterized by gently rolling hills, agricultural fields, and small forested areas. The Charente River lies to the north of the commune, while several minor streams traverse its land.
Demography
According to the most recent census data from the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) in 2020, Mouterre‑Silly had a population of 1,212 inhabitants. The population density is therefore approximately 43 inhabitants per square kilometre. Historical population trends indicate a gradual decline during the late 20th century, followed by relative stability in the early 21st century.
Administration
The mayor (maire) for the 2020–2026 term is Jean‑Pierre Dussault, elected by the municipal council. The commune’s INSEE code is 86171, and its postal code is 86260.
History
The name “Mouterre‑Silly” reflects the amalgamation of two former settlements, Mouterre and Silly, which were merged administratively in the early 19th century. The area has been inhabited since at least the Gallo‑Roman period, as evidenced by archaeological findings of pottery shards and remnants of a Roman road nearby. Medieval records mention a fortified manor house belonging to the local nobility, though little of the original structure survives.
Economy and Land Use
The local economy is predominantly agricultural, focusing on cereal cultivation, livestock farming (particularly cattle and goats), and viticulture on a limited scale. Small‑scale artisanal enterprises, such as cheese production and woodcraft, also contribute to the commune’s economic activity. A modest segment of the population commutes to larger nearby towns for employment in services and industry.
Cultural and Heritage Sites
- Saint‑Martin Church: A Romanesque‑style parish church dating from the 12th century, featuring a stone bell tower and several preserved medieval frescoes.
- The Château de Mouterre: Remnants of a 15th‑century manor house, now privately owned, with parts of the surrounding park accessible on public walking routes.
- War Memorial: A monument honoring the residents of Mouterre‑Silly who died in the World Wars, situated in the central square.
Transport
Mouterre‑Silly is served by departmental road D95, which connects it to the nearby towns of Lussac‑les‑Châteaux and Montmorillon. The nearest railway station is located in Montmorillon, providing regional TER (Transport Express Régional) services. The closest major airport is Poitiers‑Biard Airport, situated roughly 45 km to the northwest.
Education
The commune maintains a public primary school, École Primaire de Mouterre‑Silly, which serves local children aged 3–11. Secondary education institutions are located in the larger neighboring towns of Montmorillon and Poitiers.
References
- Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (INSEE). “Populations légales 2020”.
- Préfecture de la Vienne. “Liste des maires des communes du département”.
- “Mouterre‑Silly”, Communes de France, Ministère de la Cohésion des Territoires, 2021.
This entry reflects information available from official French governmental sources and recognized geographic references.