Palais des Papes

The Palais des Papes is a historical palace located in Avignon, Southern France. It is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. With 15,000 square metres of floor space, the Palais is the largest Gothic palace in all of Europe and, due to its many architectural merits, one of the most important in the world.

Unesco: Historic Centre of Avignon: Papal Palace, Episcopal Ensemble and Avignon Bridge
RR: RR Francophone
Date: May 1

Avignon Bridge

According to the legend, the bridge was built in the 12th century by a young shepherd from Ardèche - Bénezet - who heard voices telling him to build a bridge in Avignon. The bridge was completed in 1185, creating the only place to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean sea. The bridge originally spanned approximately 900 meters and had 22 arches. It was dismantled in 1226, then rebuilt. It was later washed away several times by flood waters and rebuilt until it was abandoned in the 17th century. Today, all that remains are four arches and a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicolas. The bridge is famous the world over due to the lovely children's song 'Sur le pont d’Avignon'.

Unesco: Historic Centre of Avignon: Papal Palace, Episcopal Ensemble and Avignon Bridge
RR: RR Francophone
Date: April 15

Palais des Papes

The Palais des Papes is a historical palace located in Avignon, Southern France. It is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.  Once a fortress and palace, the papal residence was the seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century. Since 1995, the Palais des Papes has been classified, along with the historic center of Avignon, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its outstanding architecture and historical importance for the Papacy.

Unesco: Historic Centre of Avignon: Papal Palace, Episcopal Ensemble and Avignon Bridge
RR: Unesco RR
Date: Feb 17