Angoulême is noted for the Cathedral of Saint Pierre, one of the most interesting Byzantine churches in southern France (see Byzantine Art and Architecture). Construction of the cathedral began in the 11th century. Damaged during the 16th-century religious conflicts, it was repaired in the 17th century and restored between 1866 and 1875. Famous inhabitants of Angoulême have included Queen Marguerite d'Angoulême of Navarre, sister of King Francis I of France, and 19th-century novelist Honoré de Balzac.
Industrial development in the city took place in the 15th century because the navigable Charente River made Angoulême a flourishing port. In more recent times, excellent rail connections have made Angoulême a modern industrial center. Population (1990) 42,876.