Saint-Étienne-Lardeyrol is a commune in the Haute‑Loire department in the Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alps region of south‑central France. It is administratively attached to the arrondissement of Le Puy‑en‑Velay and the canton of Saint‑Paulien. The commune is a member of the intercommunal structure known as the Communauté d’agglomération du Puy‑en‑Velay.
Geography
The commune lies in a rural, mountainous area of the Massif Central. Its elevation ranges from approximately 800 m to 1 100 m above sea level. Saint‑Étienne‑Lardeyrol covers an area of roughly 9.5 km², according to data from the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE).
Administration
The commune is identified by the INSEE code 43184 and uses the postal code 43270. As with all French communes, it is governed by a municipal council headed by a mayor elected for a six‑year term.
Demographics
Population figures for Saint‑Étienne‑Lardeyrol are recorded by INSEE. The most recent census data (2019) listed the commune’s population as a few hundred residents; precise numbers can be consulted in the official INSEE publications.
Economy and Land Use
The local economy is predominantly agricultural, with mixed farming and livestock rearing typical of the region. The surrounding landscape includes forested areas and pastures, supporting both traditional farming practices and limited tourism activities related to the natural environment.
Cultural and Historical Context
The name “Saint‑Étienne‑Lardeyrol” combines a dedication to Saint Étienne (Saint Stephen) with the local toponym “Lardeyrol,” which likely derives from a historic family name or a geographical feature in the area. The commune’s historical development follows the general pattern of rural settlements in the Haute‑Loire, with a heritage reflected in its parish church and vernacular architecture.
References
Information presented is drawn from French governmental sources, including INSEE data and the official publications of the Haute‑Loire department.
