HIGHLIGHTS
- visit the papal residence the Palais des Papes
- delight in the quaintness of the café filled squares
- join the summer fun at the famous Festival d’Avignon
Avignon
The dominant feature in this intriguing town in southern France is the enormous Palais des Papes. This magnificent palace has ten towers as it was designed to be an impenetrable fortress. Unfortunately over the course of the centuries most of the furnishings and works of art were looted or destroyed leaving the building bereft of all its former luxurious ornamentation. The palace’s heavy fortification is an indication of the insecure climate of 14th century religious life when popes reigned in Avignon.
The old city’s narrow streets are encircled by 4km of incredibly well preserved ramparts, towers and crenellations. Within this enclosure delightful café-filled squares can be found along with several interesting museums.
From early July to early August, the world famous Festival d’Avignon takes place in the city. Hundreds of actors, dancers and musicians descend upon the streets of Avignon creating a vibrant atmosphere as numerous performances and shows take place.