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Avignon Holiday Information
Avignon holiday deals and cheap flights. Accomodation deals and destination information.
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Avignon is a historical city built on the banks of the River Rhone, around 50 miles north of Marseille. The city was settled by the Romans, but is perhaps best known as the City of Popes. During the 14th and 15th centuries, Popes lived in Avignon, including Pope Clement V, Pope Benedict XII and Pope Innocent VI. The impressive architecture and religious buildings have made Avignon a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there is a huge amount to explore in the city.
Top Attractions
Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes)
The Palace of the Popes was where the Popes resided in Avignon. It is an impressive gothic palace, which dominates the city and the square which it overlooks. The Palace was used as a barracks and a prison after the Papacy moved back to Rome, but is now a Museum which is well worth visiting.
Notre Dame des Doms
The Notre Dame des Doms is the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Avignon, and is situated next to the Palace of the Popes. The Mausoleum of Pope John XII is inside the Cathedral. The Statue of the Virgin Mary which stands atop the Cathedral is one of its most famous features, and it can be seen for miles around.
Other historical attractions
The bridge at Avignon, Pont St-Benezet, is a 12th century bridge crossing the River Rhone. Of its original 22 arches, only 4 remain, but it is still a very impressive structure, which is best viewed from a boat trip on the river.
The city walls and ramparts are an impressive part of Avignon’s Papal legacy, having been built by the Popes to defend themselves from attackers.
Theatre Festival
Since 1947, Avignon has held an annual theatre festival in the month of July. Theatrical productions are held all over Avignon, making use of the impressive historical backdrops available. The festival is very popular so it is advisable to make early accommodation reservations for this time of year.
Museums
There are many Museums in Avignon, including the Musee du Petit Palais, which houses many renaissance paintings. Other Musuems include the Musee en Images and the Musee Calvert, which houses both modern and classical art, along with other historical items.
How to get there
There is an airport at Avignon to which direct flights are available from the UK, although many flights do not operate all year around. Flybe fly to Avignon from airports including Exeter, Southampton and Newcastle. Jet2 offer flights from Edinburgh and Leeds Bradford.
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