The Hettangian is the first stage of the Early Jurassic Epoch. It spans the time between 199.6 ± 0.6 Ma and 196.5 ± 1 Ma (million years ago). The stage follows the Rhaetian Stage of the Triassic Period. The stage takes its name from Hettange-Grande, a town in northern France, just south of the border with Luxembourg on the main road from Luxembourg City to Metz. In Europe this period, together with the Sinemurian, is also known as the Lower (or Blue) Lias Stage.