SEDAN is a town in France, in the department of the Ardennes, in E. Long. 4. 45. N. Lat. 49. 46. This is the capital of a principality of the same name, situated on the Maese, six miles from Bouillon, and fifteen from Charleville. Its situation on the frontiers of the territory of Liege, Namur, and Limburg, formerly rendered it one of the keys of the kingdom. It is extremely well fortified, and defended by a strong citadel. The castle is situated on a rock, surrounded with large towers and strong walls; here you see a most beautiful magazine of ancient arms. The governor's palace is opposite the castle. From the ramparts you have a most agreeable prospect of the Maese and the neighbouring country. Though the town is but small, yet it is full of tradesmen, as tanners, weavers, dyers, &c. The manufacture of fine cloth in this city employing a great number of hands. The principality of Sedan formerly belonged to the duke of Bouillon, who was obliged in the beginning of the last century to resign it to the crown.