Church of the Célestins of Avignon

The Church of the Célestins is a Gothic church in Avignon featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and decorated stone details typical of medieval French religious buildings. The site preserves the original layout of church and cloister together, forming a complete monastic complex from the late medieval period.

Work began in 1395 under anti-pope Clement VII and King Charles VI, positioned near the tomb of Pierre de Luxembourg. The building later received protected status as a historical monument, securing its place as a key example of medieval religious architecture in southern France.

The church carries the spiritual imprint of medieval Avignon, when the city served as a major religious center in southern France. Its austere design and solemn spaces reflect the devotional practices that shaped the community for centuries.

The building sits on Place des Corps-Saints within easy walking distance of other major religious sites in Avignon. Plan time to explore both the church interior and the attached cloister to fully appreciate the monastic layout.

The site was deeply connected to the canonized Pierre de Luxembourg, whose tomb attracted pilgrims and inspired the monastery's founding. This connection to a local saint gave the place particular spiritual drawing power that extended far beyond Avignon's walls.

Location: Avignon

Inception: 1389

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Part of: Couvent des Célestins

Address: place des Corps-Saints

GPS coordinates: 43.94361,4.80778

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:08