Périers is a commune located in the Manche department in the Normandy region of northwestern France. Situated in the western part of the Manche department, it serves as a central town within its local area.
- Location: Périers is approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) west of Saint-Lô, the prefecture of the Manche department, and lies close to the Cotentin Peninsula. Its geographical coordinates are roughly 49°07′N 1°31′W.
- Geography: The commune covers an area of approximately 19.3 square kilometers (7.45 square miles). Its landscape is typical of the Bocage Normand, characterized by hedgerows, small fields, and rolling terrain.
- Demographics: As of recent population estimates (e.g., 2019/2020), Périers has a population of around 2,400 to 2,500 inhabitants, often referred to as Périerais.
- History: The town has historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages. Périers played a significant role during World War II, particularly during the Battle of Normandy in 1944. It was heavily damaged during the fighting as Allied forces pushed through the region following D-Day, with much of the town center needing reconstruction after the war.
- Economy and Culture: Périers functions as a local market town, serving the surrounding rural communities. It hosts regular markets and offers various local services and businesses. The Church of Saint-Pierre is one of its notable historical structures, although it too underwent reconstruction after the war.
- Administration: Périers is the administrative center (chef-lieu) of the canton of Périers, an electoral division within the Manche department. It is also part of the Communauté de communes Côte Ouest Centre Manche, an intercommunal grouping.