Palais des Papes, Papal palace in Avignon, France
The Palais des Papes stands as Europe's largest medieval Gothic structure, covering 11,000 square meters with fortified towers and crenelated walls.
Construction began in 1252 when Pope Clement V moved the papal administration from Rome to Avignon, establishing a new religious center for 70 years.
The palace hosts the annual Festival d'Avignon in July, transforming its halls and courtyards into performance spaces for international theater productions.
Visitors can explore 25 rooms through interactive Histopad tours, with combined tickets available for both the palace and Pont d'Avignon.
Six papal elections took place within these walls, while the Grand Chapel served as a venue for medieval musical compositions and religious ceremonies.
Location: Avignon
Architects: Pierre Poisson, Jean de Louvres, Bertran Nogayrol
Architectural style: Gothic architecture
Part of: Historic Centre of Avignon
Address: Plaça dau Palais, 84000 Avinhon
Website: https://palais-des-papes.com
GPS coordinates: 43.95080,4.80750
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:36
Historical structures in France range from Roman amphitheaters to modern bridges. The buildings display engineering and architectural techniques through multiple periods. Monuments include Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance castles, medieval fortresses, Roman bridges, and contemporary architectural designs. These constructions represent significant periods in French history and architecture.
France presents diverse landscapes in winter, from Alps to Mediterranean coast. Cities display historical architecture under snow, while mountain regions offer ski areas and alpine views. Coastal areas and historical sites remain accessible during cold months.
Avignon in southeastern France contains many historical subjects for photographers. The Papal Palace displays medieval architecture, the Saint-Bénézet bridge spans the Rhône river. The Rocher des Doms provides views of the city skyline. Place du Palais features historical buildings, while Rue des Teinturiers contains water wheels from past centuries.
Avignon Cathedral
97 m
Historic Centre of Avignon
247 m
Cour d'honneur du palais des papes
3 m
Saint Martial's Chapel, Palace of Popes
4 m
Hôtel des Monnaies
94 m
Maison Aubanel
157 m
Roman arcades of Avignon
122 m
Hotel Galeans des Issarts
159 m
Musée Aubanel de l'imprimerie
157 m
Hotel Pamard
82 m
Hotel de Madon de Chateaublanc
116 m
Hôtel Calvet de la Palun
112 m
Hôtel d'Adhémar de Cransac
92 m
Maisons et tour de Mirault
97 m
Grande chapelle du palais des papes d'Avignon
76 m
Escaliers Sainte-Anne
151 m
Place du Palais
74 m
Immeubles, 28-30-32-34-36-38-40-42-44-46-48-50-52 rue de la Balance
151 m
Jardin des Doms war memorial
116 m
Golden pipe organ
97 m
Immeuble, rue de la Balance
143 m
Vice gérence
97 m
Maison, 8 rue Pente-Rapide-d'Avignon
131 m
Maison, 21 place du Palais
137 m
17 - 19 Place du Palais
100 m
Maison, 15 place du Palais
99 m
Maisons, 5-7 place du Palais
107 m
Immeuble, 26 rue de la Balance
149 mReviews
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