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 it boasts 25 visitor attractions? That it was once a military barracks, a theatrical stage and a cultural showcase for prestigious exhibitions?
From the ceremonial rooms, cloisters and private apartments of the Pope to the priceless frescoes, the Palais des Papes can be discovered in an unusual way with the Histopad. Use this tablet to step back in time and experience the Palais as it was in the days of the pontiffs. Augmented reality transports 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 true 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 interpretations, each more fanciful than the last, has heightened the aura of this bridge, famous the world over thanks to the song “sur le pont d’Avignon” (on the bridge of Avignon). Although listed as a Unesco World Heritage site, it’s not forbidden to dance on it! Open to visitors 7 days a week.

Intra-muros is how Avignonnais refer to life inside the city walls. At 4.3 km long, these walls were designed to repel attackers, but they also protected (and continue to protect) residents from the flooding of the Rhône. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ramparts encircle the old town, giving it a privileged, timeless atmosphere.
Commenced in 1355 under the pontificate of Innocent VI, and completed in 1370 under Urban V, the ramparts can be explored from the Pont d’Avignon entrance up to the Rocher des Doms garden, where you can discover the Rhône and a magical view of the city of the Popes.

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It almost overshadows the Palais des Papes, the Basilica of Notre Dame des Doms. With its majestic golden-lead Virgin touching the sky, dominating the Rhône valley from the Rocher des Doms, the religious edifice, built in the 12th century and then remodeled in the 15th and 17th centuries, deserves a detailed visit.
After a series of renovation works, the metropolitan basilica offers visitors and faithful a new face.