Where is aquitaine

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Aquitaine is a historical region in southwestern France, now part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine administrative region established in 2016. It covers approximately 84,036 square kilometers and has a population of about 6 million people, with Bordeaux as its capital city.

Key Facts

Aquitaine was a medieval duchy that existed from the 7th to the 15th century
The region covers 84,036 km² in southwestern France
Population is approximately 6 million people
Bordeaux serves as the capital city
Nouvelle-Aquitaine was created in 2016 as France's largest region

Overview

Aquitaine is a historical and cultural region located in southwestern France, known for its rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and significant economic contributions. The name "Aquitaine" derives from the Latin "Aquitania," which the Romans used to describe the territory inhabited by the Aquitani people. This region has played a crucial role in European history, particularly during the Middle Ages when it was a powerful duchy that controlled substantial territories.

Today, Aquitaine exists as part of the larger administrative region called Nouvelle-Aquitaine, which was created in 2016 through the merger of three former regions: Aquitaine, Limousin, and Poitou-Charentes. This reorganization made Nouvelle-Aquitaine the largest region in France by area, covering approximately 84,036 square kilometers. The region maintains its distinct cultural identity while benefiting from modern administrative structures that support its economic and social development.

How It Works

Understanding Aquitaine requires examining its historical evolution, geographical characteristics, and contemporary administrative framework.

Historical Development: Aquitaine's history spans over two millennia, beginning with Roman conquest in 56 BC. The region became a medieval duchy in the 7th century, reaching its peak under Eleanor of Aquitaine (1122-1204), who ruled as Duchess from 1137 to 1204. During her reign, Aquitaine controlled territories stretching from the Loire River to the Pyrenees, making it one of Europe's most powerful feudal domains.
Geographical Composition: The region encompasses diverse landscapes including coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean, the Pyrenees mountains to the south, and fertile plains in between. Key geographical features include the Garonne River valley, the Landes forest (Europe's largest maritime pine forest covering approximately 10,000 km²), and the Dordogne River basin. This geographical diversity supports varied economic activities from agriculture to tourism.
Administrative Structure: Since 2016, Aquitaine has been integrated into Nouvelle-Aquitaine, which comprises 12 departments: Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques from former Aquitaine, plus additional departments from merged regions. The regional capital is Bordeaux, a city with approximately 260,000 inhabitants that serves as the administrative, economic, and cultural hub.
Economic Framework: Aquitaine's economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture (particularly wine production with Bordeaux vineyards covering over 120,000 hectares), aerospace (with major facilities in Bordeaux and Pau), tourism (attracting millions of visitors annually to sites like the Dune du Pilat), and renewable energy. The region's GDP exceeds €150 billion, contributing significantly to France's national economy.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Historical Aquitaine	Modern Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Geographical Area	Approximately 41,308 km²	84,036 km² (largest French region)
Population	About 3.2 million (2012 data)	Approximately 6 million residents
Administrative Status	Separate region until 2015	Part of merged region since 2016
Economic Focus	Traditional agriculture and trade	Diversified economy with technology sectors
Cultural Identity	Distinct Occitan heritage	Blended cultures from three merged regions

Why It Matters

Historical Significance: Aquitaine's medieval history, particularly under Eleanor of Aquitaine, shaped European politics through strategic marriages and alliances. The region's incorporation into the Kingdom of England following Eleanor's marriage to Henry II in 1152 led to centuries of conflict between England and France, culminating in the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453). This historical legacy continues to influence regional identity and cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Impact: As part of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the region contributes approximately 9% of France's GDP. The wine industry alone generates billions in revenue, with Bordeaux wines exported to over 170 countries. The aerospace cluster around Bordeaux employs over 30,000 people and produces components for major aircraft manufacturers, making it a crucial sector for both regional and national economies.
Cultural Preservation: Aquitaine maintains distinct cultural traditions including the Occitan language (spoken by approximately 100,000 people), unique architectural styles visible in Romanesque churches and medieval castles, and culinary specialties like foie gras and canelés. These cultural elements attract tourists while preserving regional heritage against homogenizing national trends.

Looking forward, Aquitaine's integration into Nouvelle-Aquitaine presents both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. The region must balance economic growth with environmental protection, particularly in coastal areas vulnerable to climate change. Continued investment in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and cultural tourism will determine Aquitaine's future role within France and Europe. As demographic shifts and technological advancements reshape regional economies, Aquitaine's rich historical legacy provides a foundation for innovation while maintaining cultural distinctiveness in an increasingly interconnected world.