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Hôtel des Monnaies: A Glimpse into Avignon's Papal Past

Explore Avignon's Hôtel des Monnaies: A historic landmark with a stunning Baroque façade, once the Papal mint and a key to the city's past.

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The Hôtel des Monnaies, or Palace of the Mint, is a historic building in Avignon dating back to 1619. Located on Place du Palais, opposite the Palais des Papes, it once served as the Papal mint and later as a barracks and music conservatory. Today, its impressive façade offers a glimpse into Avignon's rich architectural and economic history.

A brief summary to Hôtel des Monnaies

Local tips

  • While the Hôtel des Monnaies may be temporarily closed, admire its impressive architecture from the Place du Palais.
  • Visit the Place du Palais for stunning views of the Palais des Papes and a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Check local listings for cultural events or exhibitions that may be taking place nearby.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in Avignon's city center, walking to the Hôtel des Monnaies is straightforward. From the Palais des Papes, simply walk across the Place du Palais. The Hôtel des Monnaies is located directly opposite the palace entrance. The walk is short and offers picturesque views of the surrounding area.

  • Public Transport

    Avignon has a good public transportation system. You can take bus lines 1 or 3 to the 'Palais des Papes' stop, which is a short walk from the Hôtel des Monnaies. A single bus ticket costs around €1.30. Alternatively, a 24-hour public transport pass, which includes the tram, is available for €2 if not purchasing the Avignon City Pass.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Avignon. A short taxi ride from the Avignon Centre train station to the Hôtel des Monnaies would likely cost between €8 and €12. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Hôtel des Monnaies

The Hôtel des Monnaies, standing proudly on the Place du Palais in Avignon, is a captivating landmark with a rich and varied history. Constructed in 1619 by Jean-François de Bagni, the vice-legate of Pope Paul V, the building initially served as the Papal mint, where pontifical currency was produced. Its strategic location opposite the Palais des Papes underscored Avignon's economic and political importance during its time as the seat of the papacy. The Hôtel des Monnaies boasts a striking Baroque façade, considered by some to be the most Italianate in Avignon. The façade features the coat of arms of Bagni, displaying the eagles and dragons of his family, the Borghese. While the architect remains unknown due to the destruction of vice-legation archives, the detailed sculptures are attributed by some to Florentine sculptor Simone Bartolacci. Over the centuries, the Hôtel des Monnaies has served various purposes. In 1760, it became the barracks for the pontifical Light Brigade and later housed the Maréchaussée. Following the French Revolution, it functioned as a Gendarmerie barracks from 1790 to 1840. From 1846 to 1852, it temporarily housed town hall services while the current Hôtel de Ville was under construction. In 1860, the building became home to Avignon's music conservatory, sharing the space at times with the town's fire department. The city of Avignon sold the Hôtel des Monnaies in February 2018, with plans to transform it into a boutique hotel. While the site has been temporarily closed, its historical significance and architectural beauty continue to draw visitors to the Place du Palais.

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