A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Popes' Palace in Avignon, a magnificent Gothic architectural complex dating from the 14th century, was built under the instructions of two popes who were enthusiastic builders, Benedict XII and his successor Clement VI, from 1335 to 1352. As the seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century, it hosted six conclaves. An exceptional site and one of France's 10 most visited monuments, the Popes' Palace overlooks the city of Avignon and the Rhône from the Doms rock. The latter offers a most remarkable group of sights to see, with the Saint-Bénezet bridge, the Small Palace (Petit Palais), the Doms Cathedral and the Popes' Palace flanked by four imposing towers.
There are 25 rooms in store for visitors to explore, including the Pope's private apartments, chapels with fresco decorations by Matteo Giovannetti and the Great Audience room adorned with the famous fresco of the Prophets, not forgetting the magnificent terraces offering direct views of the city of popes and the Rhône.
In order to create an easy and appealing tour for all audiences, the Popes' Palace has organised a comfortable and entertaining visitor trail, dotted with touch screens, display units and films synchronised with a multimedia audio-guide.
Would you like a guide to accompany you? Opt for a guided tour on the theme of your choice: "Once upon a time at the Popes' Palace", "The Popes' Palace story for children and grown-ups", "Behind the scenes at the Palace", or "Avignon in the time of the popes" which includes a tour of the old medieval city.
