Strategically located on the left bank of the Rhône, Avignon is one of the most evocative cities in Provence and one of the main artistic and cultural centres of France.
Inhabited since prehistoric times, it then became a Roman settlement but the most fascinating period of its history began when Pope Clement V, tired and frightened by the insecurity of Rome, settled there with the papal court.
From 1309 to 1377, seven French pontiffs kept the Holy See in the city, guaranteeing it a period of great prosperity and wealth.
The cathedral of Notre Dame des Doms is an example of Provençal Romanesque architecture. Over the centuries, this large church has undergone several changes due to its stormy history, in which Saracen raids, the collapse of the bell tower and looting during the French Revolution, when it was used as a prison, alternated.
Place de l’Horloge represents the heart of Avignon’s historic center and takes its name from the clock installed on top of the City Hall. Place de l’Horloge, with its restaurants, carousel, centuries-old plane trees and the Opera is certainly one of the most popular spots for tourists.
The covered market of Avignon is a real institution in the city. It is the right place to taste the Provençal delicacies of the area.
