Palais des Papes in Avignon, Provence is one of the principal attractions of one of the most culturally rich regions of France.
Anyone taking a holiday in Provence should take a trip to Avignon as there really is something for everyone. A fortified city, the massive old quarter of Avignon is entirely encircled by a fortified wall. You can park just outside the wall if you get there early enough or you can go by train.
Inside is a myriad of streets where you will find an intriguing selection of shops, cafes and restaurants, often in old buildings many of which have discreet courtyards. The main street has plenty of big shops for serious shopping and the vast squares are animated with outdoor cafes and places to eat.
The piece de resistance is at the north end of the Vieux Avignon. Here lies the imposing Palais des Papes, one of the biggest gothic, medieval structures in Europe. You can’t help but marvel at the scale of the Palace which once housed the Popes during their period away from Rome which began during the reign of Pope Clement V in 1309.
Perhaps the most pleasant attraction about this Unesco Heritage site is the garden area, which is at the top of the hill overlooking the Palace and commanding fabulous, panoramic views of Avignon and the surrounding area including the famous Pont d’Avignon which part crosses the majestic river Rhone.
You can visit inside the Palace. For full details of opening times and prices view palais-des-papes.com/
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