The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001-07.
Laval, town, France
town (1990 pop. 53,478), capital of Mayenne dept., NW France, in Maine. It has been noted for its linen products since the 14th cent. Among its other industrial products are textiles, shoes, furniture, and electronics. It was founded in the 9th cent. Laval was a center of the Chouans in the French Revolution.