The Palais des Papes (also known as the Palace of the Popes) in Avignon, is one of four locations across Europe that has been used as a residence of the pope. The Palais des Papes at Avignon is one of the largest and most important Gothic medieval buildings in Europe.

Situated on a natural rocky outcrop at the northern edge of Avignon, the location was chosen as a residence by Pope Clement V, who used Avignon as his residence in 1309. The current building began to take form during Pope Benedict XII's term in 1334, and was continued by his successors until 1364. The Palais des Papes comprises two portions, Palais Vieux (Old Palace), and Palais Neuf (New Palace). The palace occupies an area 11,000 metres squared in size.

Visitors to the Palais des Papes complex can see over 20 different rooms, including the Grand Chapel, where the Avignon popes worshiped.

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Last edited on Aug 3, 10 2:06 AM.
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Andrea C.

Tarina L.

Jul 4, 2010

The size and grandeur of the building is spectacular (as well as the views), but once inside its quite spartan. There are countless artifacts on display and the audio guide is very helpful, but I still found it difficult to imagine the building occupied - by its previous resident Popes or French military. While its a must-see in Avignon, the Palais des Papes did not leave me in awe.

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Rachel S.

May 6, 2009

Avignon is a beautiful, quaint city, and Palais des Papes is a beautiful building. This is also a cool place for the history buffs- it was the seat of the papacy for about 70 years. Visitors should also check out the Pont Saint-Bénezet, a medieval bridge near the city that was supposedly built by a saint.

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Wade M.

Feb 24, 2010

From what I remember, this was an interesting place, with interesting architecture, but not much substance for a non-christian. Easy to see in half a day.

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An V.

Jul 28, 2008

there's theatre and other performances all day and part of the night on the large square in front of the palais des papes. nice to hang out and watch some.

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Septimiu C.

Aug 25, 2010

The inside of the Palais des Papes is not impressive, being quite dull, but the view from the tower over Avignon and Rhone Valley is really wonderful.

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