Château des Papes: A Ruined Legacy of Papal Ambition
Explore the majestic ruins of Château des Papes in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a testament to papal history and the heart of Rhône Valley winemaking, offering panoramic vineyard views.
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Rhône Valley, the Château des Papes in Châteauneuf-du-Pape stands as a majestic, albeit ruined, testament to papal history and viticultural excellence. Built in the 14th century by Pope John XXII, this castle served as a summer residence for the Avignon Popes, seeking respite from the heat. Today, its skeletal remains offer panoramic views of the renowned vineyards that produce the celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine. While much of the castle was destroyed during the Second World War, the remaining dungeon and southern wall evoke a sense of the past, inviting visitors to explore its storied grounds and imagine its former grandeur. The castle is a symbol of the town and a must-see for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike, providing a unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
A brief summary to Castle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Château des Papes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 84230, FR
- +33490837108
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain of the castle ruins.
- Visit the castle in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the Rhône Valley.
- Combine your visit with a wine tasting at one of the nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape wineries.
- Check the local events calendar, as the castle often hosts wine festivals and cultural events.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views and the unique architecture of the remaining structures.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Châteauneuf-du-Pape village, the Château des Papes is easily accessible on foot. Starting from Place de la Bascule, a free parking area near the village center, walk towards the main square, Place Jean Moulin. From there, follow Rue des Papes uphill, passing the church on your right. The path is clearly marked with signs leading to the Château. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the village and vineyards. Note that the final approach involves a slightly steep incline.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus, disembark at the Louis Pasteur bus stop in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. From the bus stop, walk along Avenue Pasteur towards the village center. Turn left onto Rue de la République and then right onto Rue des Papes. Follow Rue des Papes uphill towards the castle. The walk from the bus stop to the Château des Papes takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Bus lines 902 and 922 serve this stop. A single bus fare costs approximately €2.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and follow signs towards the village center. Limited parking is available near the castle. There are a few free parking options such as Parking Place d'Auggen and Parking de la Bascule, both within a 5-minute walk to the center. Alternatively, paid parking is available at Place Jean Moulin and Place de l'église. Parking fees typically range from €1.50 to €2.50 per hour.
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