Prefectures in France

In France, a prefecture is the administrative center of a department, which is a regional division within the country. It is typically the city where the department's main government offices are located, including the office of the prefect, who represents the national government at that local level. The prefecture coordinates regional administration, manages local services, and enforces national policies. Essentially, it functions as the administrative hub for the department, serving as a link between the national government and local communities.