Traditional and modern

The name of Alençon is inseparable from needle point lace of incomparable finesse which made the town famous as of the 18th century. Synonymous with elegance and refinement, the "Queen of all laces", which for a long time decorated the most sumptuous fineries of the European Royal Courts, today adorn the most extravagant creations of the most well known couturiers. Showing its appreciation for this exceptional craftsmanship, the town has devoted an extensive and passionate permanent exhibition within the Fine Art Museum.

Alençon is also the location for a plastic processing centre of excellence, unique in Europe, of which its principal missions are training, innovation and technology transfer, promotion of skills and the setting up of new companies.