Béziers

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Town in the Hérault département in southern France, situated at the crossing of the River Orb and the Canal du Midi, 60 km/37 mi southwest of Montpellier; population (1999) 69,400. It is a centre of the wine and spirit trade. Other industries include the manufacture of textiles, chemicals, and confectionery. Features include pre-Roman and Roman remains, the Gothic church of St-Nazaire, formerly a cathedral, and ancient city walls.

The wingless dragon holds jewels in its claws to represent prosperity. Saffron yellow symbolizes the power of the monarchy. Orange-red stands for Buddhism. Effective date: c. 1971. >>