Laval is built along the Mayenne river and has benefited from other the influence of other Europe cultures for centuries. The city developed around the Castle of Laval, mainly thanks to the textile industry; linen from Laval is exported all over Europe. Laval is the native city of Ambroise Paré, the research published by this famous surgeon from the XVI century was translated and distributed all over Europe. Many works of art by European artists can be found in Laval, such as the tryptic painting by Flemish artist Pieter Van Aersten in the Holy Trinity Cathedral.