Le Palais des Papes à Avignon

Because of factional strife in Rome, Pope Clement V decided to move the papal court to Avignon in 1309. And, where the Pope went, Rome went with him. So you could say that Rome was in Avignon until Urban V moved back to Rome, Italy in 1377 (or until 1403, if you count the time of the “anti-popes” when two men at a time claimed the title of pope).  Obviously, they would need a place to live.



The palace itself started out as a relatively modest building. Pope Benedict XII did some remodeling and additions from 1334-1342 and built the simple Palais Vieux (Old Palace). Then Clement VI made a lot of additions from 1342-1352, added four wings and ten towers (some more than 164 feet high), and built the more flamboyant Palais Neuf (New Palace). Thus, this enormous palace was built in less than twenty years, which in itself is amazing. The Palais des Papes is the biggest gothic palace in Europe and covers an area of about 148,000 square feet or four acres.


The palace served as a fortress as well as a residence for the pope and the papal court. The fortifications were needed to defend the residents and the luxurious trappings from rogue bands of mercenaries and anyone else who might attack. Unfortunately, all the furnishings and works of art were destroyed or looted following the Revolution in 1789, and the palace later served as a prison, barracks, and warehouse.

This huge edifice still dominates the old, walled city of Avignon. There has been a great deal of restoration to the facility, and, although it is largely empty, it was very impressive to tour. Equipped with audio guides describing various rooms and features, we spent around three hours touring most of the 25 rooms currently open to visitors. But, enough history – here are some pictures:

We couldn't get it all in with our camera, so here is a professional photo taken from the city side.

And, here's a view a night from the river side.  You also get a view of the city wall in this picture.



One of the courtyards.  (Note the lovely blue sky.)



Since Anna has a thing for gargoyles, she had to take this picture of one at the palace.

The Grand Chapel.






(Side note to GG and anyone else keeping track of bises - in this part of the country, we observed greetings with  three kisses - right, left, right.)