Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
AVIGNON
POP 92,454
Ringed by incredibly preserved 800-year-old stone ramparts, graceful Avignon's turn as the
seat of papal power bestowed the city with a treasury of magnificent art and architecture,
none grander than the massive medieval fortress and papal palace, Palais des Papes. In ro-
mantic counterpoint, Pont d'Avignon - of nursery-rhyme fame - spans half the Rhône. An-
cient cobbled streets pass inviting boutiques; leafy squares overflow with cafe tables; and
in July thousands come for Avignon's renowned performing arts festival.
History
Avignon first gained its ramparts - and reputation for arts and culture - during the 14th
century when Pope Clement V fled political turmoil in Rome. From 1309 to 1377, seven
French-born popes invested huge sums in the papal palace and offered asylum to Jews and
political dissidents. Pope Gregory XI left Avignon in 1376, but his death two years later led
to the Great Schism (1378-1417), during which rival popes (up to three at one time)
resided at Rome and Avignon, denouncing and excommunicating one another. Even after
the matter was settled and an impartial pope, Martin V, established himself in Rome,
Avignon remained under papal rule. Avignon and Comtat Venaissin (now the Vaucluse
dé-
partement
) were ruled by papal legates until 1791.
Sights & Activities
You'll need at least two days in Avignon to visit the major sights: the Palais des Papes, the
Pont St-Bénezet and the walled city's lovely cobbled streets. Ticket offices for sights close
30 to 60 minutes before overall closing time.
