Capital of Hérault, France, on the Lez, 6 m. from the Gulf of Lyons, 30 m. SW. of Nimes, is a picturesque town, containing a cathedral, a university, picture-gallery, libraries, and other institutions, and has been a centre of culture and learning since the 16th century; it also manufactures chemicals, corks, and textiles, and does a large trade in brandy and wine.