UNESCO heritage treasures

Do you really know the Palais des Papes in Avignon? Did you know, for example, that it is the largest Gothic palace? That it was built in just 70 years by successive Popes, and that there are 25 places to visit? That it was once a military barracks, a theatre stage and a cultural showcase for prestigious exhibitions?
From the ceremonial rooms, cloisters and private flats of the Pope to the priceless fresco decorations, the Palais des Papes can be discovered in an unusual way thanks to Histopad. Use this tablet to step back in time and experience the Palais as it was in the days of the pontiffs. It’s an augmented reality experience that takes you to the heart of the history of Avignon and the world.

The Pont Saint Bénezet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon, is a real feat of engineering! Built in the 12th century, it once linked the two banks of the Rhône. The bearer of legends and an emblematic monument of the region, today it retains just 4 of the original 22 arches.
This architectural oddity, which has given rise to many questions and fanciful interpretations, has added to the aura of this bridge, which is famous the world over thanks to the song “sur le pont d’Avignon” (on the bridge of Avignon). Although listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it’s not forbidden to dance on it! Open to visitors 7 days a week.

Intra-muros is how the people of Avignon describe life inside the city walls. At 4.3 km long, these walls were designed to repel attackers, but they also served (and still serve) to protect the inhabitants from the flooding of the Rhône. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ramparts encircle the old town, giving it a special, timeless atmosphere.
Begun in 1355 under the pontificate of Innocent VI and completed in 1370 under Urban V, the city walls can be explored via the entrance to the Pont d’Avignon, leading up to the garden of the Rocher des Doms to discover the Rhône and a magical view of the city of the Popes.

The Basilica of Notre Dame des Doms almost overshadows the Palais des Papes. With its majestic golden-lead Virgin Mary reaching for the sky and dominating the Rhône valley from the Rocher des Doms, this religious edifice, built in the 12th century and remodelled in the 15th and 17th centuries, is well worth a detailed visit.
After a series of renovation works, the Metropolitan Basilica offers visitors and worshippers a new face.