Palais des Papes - Avignon - TravBuddy

The large and impressive edifice of the Palais des Papes is about all you need to see of this attraction. The interior space is mostly vacant except for a few frescoes and some impressive sculptures. You probably learned all you need to know about this place in your European History class and wall texts are all in French, so unless you are fluent you are out of luck.

Le Palais des Papes, or Palace of the Popes, is one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe. It was built in the 14th century as a residence for pope Clement V, who didn't want to live in Rome.

The palace is beautifully preserved and almost completely open to the public. Although the leaflet promises a lot more than you get (beautiful frescoes! cultural events!), a visit is very rewarding. The audioguide gives a good look into the history of the palace and Avignon as a papal city, and makes that you see a lot more than without one.

If you are interested in medieval architecture, history or a beautiful view over Avignon, the palace is a good place to visit.

Cost: €9,50 without reduction, €7,50 with reduction (students, elderly, holders of a validated Avignon Pass, etc.)