Palace of the Popes
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
The Palace of the Popes in Avignon, Southern France, is one of Europe's largest and most significant medieval Gothic structures. Constructed in two main phases, it combines the austere Old Palace built by Pope Benedict XII and the lavish New Palace of Pope Clement VI, together forming the largest Gothic palace of the Middle Ages and a prime example of International Gothic architecture. Designed by architects Pierre Poisson and Jean de Louvres, and decorated by renowned Sienese artists Simone Martini and Matteo Giovanetti, the palace served as the papal residence during the Avignon Papacy in the 14th century. It hosted six papal conclaves, shaping significant Church history. Beyond its architectural grandeur, the palace was a cultural hub, housing the largest library in Europe at the time and attracting scholars like Petrarch, as well as musicians such as Guillaume de Machaut and Philippe de Vitry. The palace also centralized the papal administration, facilitating the Church's organizational evolution. Although the papacy eventually returned to Rome, the Palais des Papes remains a monumental symbol of medieval ecclesiastical power and Gothic artistry, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.
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Tip: Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long waiting times. The palace offers combined tickets including access to the Pont d'Avignon and the Papal Gardens, providing a comprehensive experience. Sundays offer free entry for local residents. The best time to visit is during spring and early autumn when crowds are smaller and weather is pleasant. Audio guides and interactive Histopad devices enhance the visit by providing detailed historical context.
Interesting facts
- •The palace hosted six papal conclaves in the 14th century, electing popes such as Benedict XII and Clement VI.
- •At its peak, the papal library within the palace housed over 2,000 volumes, making it the largest in Europe at the time.
- •The Great Chapel of the palace was a center for medieval music, where composers like Guillaume de Machaut and Philippe de Vitry performed.
- •The palace covers an area of approximately 11,000 square meters, making it the largest Gothic palace of the Middle Ages.
- •Famous Italian artists from the School of Siena, Simone Martini and Matteo Giovanetti, contributed to the palace's lavish decorations.
History
Construction of the Palace of the Popes began in 1252 on the rocky outcrop known as the Rocher des Doms in Avignon.
The palace became the papal residence in 1309 when Pope Clement V moved the papal court from Rome to Avignon due to political instability.
Pope Benedict XII initiated the building of the Old Palace, a fortified structure, which was later expanded by Pope Clement VI with the addition of the more extravagant New Palace.
The palace served as the seat of the papacy during the Avignon Papacy until the return to Rome in 1370 under Pope Gregory XI.
Despite the papacy's departure, the palace remained significant during the Western Schism and housed cardinals and antipopes.
Over centuries, it lost much of its original splendor but retained its architectural grandeur and historical importance.
Place Guide
Old Palace (Palais Vieux)1334-1342
Built under Pope Benedict XII, the Old Palace is a fortified Gothic structure with four wings and high towers, designed to serve as a stronghold and residence. It features a central cloister and austere architectural style reflecting Benedict XII's temperament.
New Palace (Palais Neuf)1342-1364
Commissioned by Pope Clement VI, the New Palace is more extravagant and ornate, showcasing International Gothic style. It includes richly decorated chapels, grand halls, and frescoes by Simone Martini and Matteo Giovanetti.
Great Chapel1342-1364
The Great Chapel served as the main religious and ceremonial hall within the palace. It hosted important liturgical events and attracted renowned medieval composers and musicians.
Papal Library14th century
Once the largest library in Europe, the papal library contained over 2,000 volumes and was a center for scholars and humanists, including Petrarch.
Papal Gardens
The Papal Gardens surrounding the palace offer scenic views of the Rhône River and the city of Avignon, providing a peaceful retreat and complementing the architectural grandeur of the palace.
Contact
Phone: 04 32 74 32 74
