UNESCO heritage treasures

How much do you really know about the Palais des Papes in Avignon? Did you know, for example, that it is the largest Gothic building from the Middle Ages? That it was built in just 20 years, between 1335 and 1352? That it was once a military barracks, a theatre and a cultural venue hosting prestigious exhibitions?

From state rooms and cloisters to the Pope’s private apartments, adorned with priceless frescoes, the Palais des Papes – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – can be explored through a tour that has been completely revamped.

The Pont Saint Bénezet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon, is a true feat of engineering! Built in the 12th century, it once connected the two banks of the Rhône. Steeped in legend and an iconic monument of the region, only four of its original 22 arches remain today.

This architectural oddity, which raises many questions and inspires interpretations each more fanciful than the last, has added to the aura of this bridge, famous throughout the world thanks to the song ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’. Although listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you are allowed to dance on it! Open to visitors seven days a week.

Intra-muros is how the people of Avignon refer to life inside the city walls. These walls, which are 4.3 km long and were built to repel attackers, also served (and still serve) to protect the inhabitants from flooding by the Rhône. The ramparts encircle the old town and still give it a special, timeless atmosphere.

Begun in 1355 during the pontificate of Innocent VI and completed in 1370 under Urban V, they can be explored via the entrance at the Pont d’Avignon, leading up to the Rocher des Doms garden, where you can enjoy views of the Rhône and a magical vista over 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.