Palais des Papes, Papal palace in Avignon, France
The Palais des Papes is a medieval papal palace, museum and fortress in Avignon that stretches across several levels and wings. The complex includes watchtowers, battlements, private chambers, chapels and grand audience halls whose stone walls have endured for centuries.
Pope Clement V moved the papal court here in 1309, making the city the seat of Christianity. Seven popes ruled from here until the return to Rome in 1377, while construction was completed in several phases under different pontiffs.
The name reflects the dual role of spiritual authority and political power, both visible in the high walls and halls that once received kings and cardinals. Today visitors use the same courtyards and galleries to move between exhibitions and events.
The entrance lies in the center of Avignon and leads into sprawling rooms often connected by steep stairs and narrow passages. Anyone with difficulty climbing should check accessible routes in advance.
A narrow secret staircase connects the papal private rooms directly to the chapel, allowing the pontiff to reach mass unnoticed. Beneath the frescoes in some chambers lie older layers of paint that only became visible again during restoration work.
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