Fishing port on the Bay of Biscay in western France; population (1999) 76,700, conurbation 116,300. It is the administrative centre of Charente-Maritime département. Industries include shipbuilding, chemicals, motor vehicles, fish-canning, and saw-milling. A Huguenot stronghold, it was taken by Cardinal Richelieu in the siege of 162728.
The Union Jack signifies the islands' wish to preserve links with Britain. The nine stars representing the islands are placed according to their locations. Effective date: 11 April 1997.