Population: 2,403,000

Regional capital: Orlans

This region is of very high agricultural importance to France's cereal production. Its historic heritage (Chateaux of the Loire, Chartres cathedral) draws many tourists.

Benefits to the region also derived from the decentralization of companies transferred from Paris (motor vehicle accessories, electronics, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics).

Towns in Center

Amboise
Blois
Bourges
Chartres
Chateauroux
Chinon
Nogent-le-Rotrou
Orlans
Tours
Vierzon