Background

Church of the Célestins: A Royal Legacy in Avignon

Explore Avignon's Church of the Célestins, a former monastic church with royal ties, now a vibrant cultural hub hosting exhibitions and events.

4.6

The Church of the Célestins, located on Place des Corps Saints in Avignon, stands as a testament to the city's monastic heritage. Founded in 1389 by Antipope Clement VII and King Charles VI, it is the final and only royal foundation of the Avignon papacy. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

A brief summary to Church of the Célestins of Avignon

  • 84000 Pl. des Corps Saints, Avignon, 84000, FR

Local tips

  • Check the Avignon City Tourist Office website for current exhibition schedules and opening hours.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Place des Corps Saints and explore other nearby historical sites.
  • Consider attending a performance or event held within the church during the Avignon Festival for a unique cultural experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of the Célestins is located on Place des Corps Saints in the heart of Avignon, within the city walls. From the Palais des Papes, walk south along Place du Palais, then turn left onto Rue de la Petite Fusterie. Continue onto Rue des Marchands, then turn right onto Rue des Trois Faucons. Turn left onto Rue de la Bonneterie, then turn right onto Place des Corps Saints. The church will be on your right. This is a walk of approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Avignon's public transport network, Orizo, includes buses and a tram. Several bus lines serve the city center. Check the Orizo website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the main bus stops on Place Pie or near the post office, it's a short walk to Place des Corps Saints. A single ticket costs €1.40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Avignon. Major taxi ranks are located at the central and TGV train stations. A taxi from the Avignon Centre train station to the Church of the Célestins, a short ride within the city center, will cost approximately €10, including the base fare. From Avignon TGV station, expect to pay around €30-35.

Unlock the Best of Church of the Célestins of Avignon

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Church of the Célestins of Avignon

The Church of the Célestins, or Église des Célestins, is a former convent church located on the Place des Corps Saints in Avignon. Its construction began in 1389 under the patronage of Antipope Clement VII and King Charles VI of France, near the tomb of Pierre de Luxembourg. This makes it the last foundation of the Avignon papacy and the only royal foundation in the city. The church replaced a wooden chapel built in 1389 and construction spanned from 1395 to 1452. The cloister and monastery were added in the mid-15th century. The church belonged to the Celestine Order, founded in 1264 by Pierre de Moron (Pope Celestine V). In 1625, the altar of the Chapel of Saint Peter of Luxembourg was rebuilt in Baroque style, and in 1693, the relics of Saint Benezet were moved there. During the French Revolution, it served as a storage site for Avignon's art. The church's surroundings were named Holy Bodies Square (Place des Corps Saints) in 1843, a reflection of the relics housed there. The church was classified as a historic monument on June 8, 1914. After being decommissioned after World War II, the buildings were occupied by the administrative city. Since 1980, the church has been owned by the City of Avignon, which began its renovation in 2019. Today, the deconsecrated church is a cultural space that hosts exhibitions and performances, including those during the Festival d'Avignon.

Popular Experiences near Church of the Célestins of Avignon

Popular Hotels near Church of the Célestins of Avignon

Select Currency