Auch

Auch, the capital of the French department of Gers, on the river Gers, 44 miles S. of Agen by rail. The Augusta Auscorum of the Romans, it is built on a hill, whose summit is crowned by the cathedral (1489-1662), rich in stained glass and carved woodwork. A flight of 200 steps leads up to it from the river. The chief articles of trade are woollen and cotton stuffs, fruits, wine, and the brandy of Armagnac. Pop. 12,334.