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Église Saint-Didier: A Gothic Gem in Avignon

Discover Église Saint-Didier in Avignon, a 14th-century Gothic masterpiece with stunning architecture and artistic treasures.

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Église Saint-Didier is a captivating 14th-century Gothic church in the heart of Avignon. Commissioned by Cardinal Bertrand de Déaux, it stands on the site of a 7th-century church and showcases Avignon's papal history and artistic legacy with its architecture and interior treasures.

A brief summary to Église Saint Didier

  • 10 Pl. Saint-Didier, Avignon, 84000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Take a moment to explore the charming Place Saint-Didier surrounding the church.
  • Entry to the Église Saint-Didier is free.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Église Saint-Didier is centrally located in Avignon's historic district and easily accessible on foot from most major points of interest. From the Palais des Papes, walk east along Place du Palais, then turn right onto Rue de la Balance. Continue onto Rue Saint-Agricol, then turn left onto Place Saint-Didier. The church will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. From Place de l'Horloge, walk north on Rue de la République, turn left onto Rue Joseph Vernet, then turn right onto Rue Saint-Agricol. Turn left onto Place Saint-Didier. The church will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Orizo bus system is the main mode of public transportation in Avignon. From the Avignon Centre train station, take the bus towards St Didier. Services depart every 20 minutes. A single ticket costs €1.30. The Baladine electric shuttle is a free service that operates in the city center of Avignon. It's a small, eco-friendly vehicle that can accommodate up to 9 passengers. The shuttle runs every 7 minutes from Monday to Saturday, making it a convenient option for short trips within the city center.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Église Saint-Didier is not recommended due to the pedestrianized city center. Limited street parking is available, but it is often difficult to find and can be expensive. It is best to park in one of the parking garages located outside the city walls and walk or take public transport to the church. Parking at the 'Palais des Papes' car park costs approximately €1.40-€1.70 per hour. Parking around the city wall is possible for a maximum of 5 hours, costing €0.80 per hour.

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Discover more about Église Saint Didier

Église Saint-Didier, nestled on Place Saint-Didier in Avignon, is a striking example of southern Gothic architecture, reflecting the city's papal past and artistic heritage. Constructed between 1356 and 1359, Cardinal Bertrand de Déaux commissioned the church, and his tomb can still be found inside. The church is built upon the foundation of a prior 7th-century church, traditionally believed to have been established by Saint Agricol. The church exemplifies the Avignon Gothic style, marked by its robust construction, clean lines, and balanced proportions. The imposing six-sided bell tower is a notable landmark. The facade, though simple, features an oculus and portal. Inside, a serene atmosphere prevails, influenced by the Cistercian aesthetic prevalent during the Avignon Papacy. The single nave, accompanied by side chapels, leads to a pentagonal apse, creating a sense of unity. Light filters through elongated windows. The church houses relics of Saint Bénézet, the visionary behind Avignon's famous bridge, and a magnificent altarpiece crafted in 1476 by Francesco Laurana for King René of Anjou. The church also holds relics of Saint Pierre de Luxembourg. During the French Revolution, the church underwent some modifications. Today, Église Saint-Didier remains a place of worship and a testament to Avignon's cultural heritage.

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