AVIGNON

The city of Avignon is the capital of Vaucluse département in the in the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur in the south of France and sits on the left bank of the River Rhône.

Avignon is approximately 580 km (360 miles) south-south-east of Paris, 229 km (142 miles) south of Lyon and 85 km (52 miles) north-north-west of Marseille

Avignon is known as the city of Popes, or ‘Altera Roma’. This city retains many reminders of the Pope’s stay, and for a while Avignon was the capital of the Medieval, Western World. Situated in the heart of the popular area known as Provence, Avignon enjoys a magical southern climate and possesses a true, Gaelic and rural charm that not all French towns can offer the discerning visitor. Avignon can offer something for everyone. Experience the culture of the Theatre Festival, amazing architecture, museums and quaint markets and fairs. Avignon is steeped in history throughout it’s existence. The Romans and Barbarians ruled for a time, followed by the rule of the Popes during the 15^th - 16^th century, the French revolution through to the cultural changes of the 19^th and 20^th century that makes this town the unique, picturesque place that it is today.

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Places of interest in Avignon

The Saint Benezet’s Bridge - The Bridge of Avignon - Legend has it that a peasant boy from the beginning of the 13^th century heard a voice that told him to build a bridge over the Rhone in Avignon. It is said that he was guided by an Angel and all the other villagers helped him in his quest to finish the bridge.

Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) - This palace is claimed to be the ‘most beautiful and biggest house in the world.’ The palace took 17 years to build from 1335 - 1352. The palace is surrounded by a superb fortress and is the largest Gothic palace in the world.

The Streets of Teinturiers - The rue de Teinturiers is a picturesque street paved with stones from the Durance River. It starts at the city’s walls and follows the Sorgue canal up to the intersection with rue des Lices. The medieval streets contain wheels that were used during the 16^th century for millers and spinners, charming café’s and restaurants and even boasts its own festival where traditional shows take place.

Things to do in Avignon

Avignon Theatre Festival - Taking place through most of July, the theatre boasts live animated shows, art exhibitions, street performances, music and traditional shows. Many of the town’s history is shown through street performances and this festival has become a big cultural event in Avignon.

Avignon Wine Tour - Enjoy a tour of the vineyards, see how wine is made and sample the wine that you can press yourself. A good day out, but perhaps leave the children behind!

Avignon markets - Avignon has many markets to offer the visitor. Les Halles is the biggest covered market that is open every day except Mondays. St Michael and Place Crillon have numerous food markets at the weekend and Place de Carmes has a flower market on Saturdays and a Flea market on a Sunday.

Events In Avignon

July - Avignon Theatre Festival, Avignon Jazz Concert, National Day with Fireworks, Book Fair and Festival Craft music.

August - Concerts and Strolls.

September - Salon Auto Moto Retro, Ban Des Vendages, Heritage Day, 10km Race and Antique Fair.

October - Animo and Nature, Parcours de la Arts.

November - Avignon Blues Festival, fair, Model show and Town fair.