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Avignon, City of the Popes
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Avignon is a true open-air museum, listed since 1995 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Avignon was throughout the 14th century a pontifical city. Nine Popes have succeeded each other and The Popes’ Palace is the main witness of their presence. It is one of the few French cities to have preserved its ramparts and its historic centre, composed of the Popes’ Palace, an episcopal complex, the “Rocher des Doms” and also the famous Avignon bridge – Pont Saint Benezet.
The fame of its Festival of performing arts, a true artistic and cultural showcase of the city, has far exceeded French borders.
Avignon and its surroundings are also known as a mecca of gastronomy and wine tourism.
The Palace of the Popes
The Popes’ Palace is the largest Gothic palace in the world ! This Palace is in fact a fortress which was built in the 14th century in just 70 years by the Popes who succeeded it. Its 1800 m2 main courtyard known as “Cour d’honneur” has become an emblematic place of the Avignon Theater Festival. Take the time to visit the papal apartments with their rich frescoes and ornaments, the cloisters and other ceremonial rooms.
The Avignon Bridge
Although only 4 arches remain on the original 22 that were composing the bridge in the 12th century, it is still possible to dance on it …. Or at least to walk on it ! Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a must-see during your visit in Avignon.
Avignon, a historical city
It is always a pleasure to take a walk in the old town of Avignon, surrounded by its ramparts. History lovers or simple curious, you will enjoy strolling through its old cobbled streets lined with old mansions and stop, here or there, on a terrace on a shady square.
Useful links
Download the file and print it, or visit the Tourist Office to get it real size. You can also ask us, but no sure we will have some left …
https://fr.calameo.com/read/001858865e198e1cf2209
Guided tours are proposed by the Avignon Tourism Office
https://avignon-tourisme.com/explorer/visiter/visites-guidees/
Villeneuve lez Avignon
Just on the other side of the Rhône, do not miss this city of art with an exceptional historical heritage. Long time ago the strategic place of those who wanted to conquer Avignon and Provence, it then became a residence of the Popes, Cardinals and Prelates of the Pontifical Court. The Philippe le Bel tower was used to control the access to the Avignon bridge, the view of Avignon from Fort Saint André is magnificent, the Chartreuse Notre-Dame-du-Val-de-Bénédiction is charming.
The Avignon (international theater) Festival
The Festival d’Avignon is the most important theatre and live performances event in the world, according to the number of creations and spectators gathered. Founded in September 1947 by Jean Vilar , this festival of performing arts is considered the oldest and most famous in France.
I’m going !
Distance from your Guesthouse : 14 km
Direction : Saint Saturnin les Avignon then Avignon
By Train : From Saint Saturnin les Avignon or Le Thor a 10-15mn travel to reach Avignon Central Station
Our best addresses
When we go to Avignon, we like to eat in a Japanese restaurant, to change from french cooking. And because we’ve found 2 very good addresses :
http://tanoshii-avignon.com/
Because we eat very well there too: Le Petit Comptoir
Because they invite great musicians in a beautiful place hidden from the crowd : Au coeur d’Avignon
Useful links
All you need to organize your visit …
https://avignon-tourisme.com/
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