Avignon

Town

Come and discover Avignon. City of Provence, also called the City of the Popes. Discover its ramparts, its famous, its festival and so much more. Relive the history of the Vatican in Provence through its monuments, which are full of history.

AVIGNON : THE CITY OF THE POPES

Avignon, the City of Popes, needs no introduction. The famous bridge, the ramparts… The city is a major tourist destination in the Vaucluse region, known for its heritage and cultural events like the renowned summer festival. Serving as the gateway to the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, Avignon is a typical Provencal city. It is situated on the left bank of the Rhône River, separating it from Gard.

You can admire the Palais des Papes, built in the 14th century, as well as the ramparts, ancient ruins, and numerous historic buildings. Relive the history of the "Vatican in Provence" as you wander through the streets of this magnificent fortified medieval city.

THE PALAIS DES PAPES

Built in the 14th century, the Palais des Papes is the largest Gothic building in the Middle Ages. Six popes lived here from 1335 to 1394. The current Palais des Papes is in fact the reunification of two palaces: the one of Benedict XII (the old palace) and the one of Clement VI (the new palace). Its pontifical library was at the time the largest in Europe and housed nearly 2000 books. The Palace was classified as a Historical Monument in 1840 and it was only in 1995 that it became part of UNESCO's World Heritage List. King Louis XIV stayed there on March 19, 1660 for the Easter holidays. After the French Revolution, part of the Palace became the military headquarters. Today, the Palais des Papes is one of the 10 most visited monuments in France with nearly 650,000 visitors per year. Remember to book your ticket at the ticket office to avoid queues at the entrance to the monument!

THE SAINT-BÉNÉZET BRIDGE

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont Saint Bénézet is famous for the song "Sur le pont d'Avignon". Built in the 12th century, it was rebuilt several times before being abandoned in the 17th century. It was mainly used as a passage for pilgrims between Spain and Italy, as a toll and for controlling river traffic.

AVIGNON, A CITY TURNED TOWARDS ART

City of arts and culture, Avignon becomes every year the capital of theater in France. Don't hesitate to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the July festivals and experience a memorable stay in the city.

At the south of the city, the Durance marks the boundary with the Bouches-du-Rhône. The Avignon Festival takes place every year in the Cour d'honneur of the Palais.

CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE

The reputation of the varietal wines of the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape begins with Pope Clement V, who had a preference for the village vineyard. Then, his successor, Jean XXII, declared Châteauneuf du Pape to be the official wine of the Palace. 3,000 liters were sold at the Palace between 1325 and 1334. However, it was only in the 20th century that the wine officially took on the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.

STAYING IN AVIGNON

If you have planned a holiday in Provence, your stay cannot avoid a visit to the Cité des Papes! For your holiday rental, you will have the choice: hotel room, holiday home, apartment-hotel or holiday residence… You will necessarily find your happiness! The most beautiful Provençal villages, the monuments of Avignon, shopping in the craft shops, hikes around, festivals and wine tastings will punctuate your holidays, for your enjoyment!