Palais des Papes Travel Guide

The Palais des Papes, a colossal 15,000 square meter palace, is a testament to the power and influence of the Catholic Church in the 14th century. Constructed in less than 20 years (1335-1352), the palace is equal to the size of four Gothic cathedrals. Originally a fortress, the palace was established when Pope Clement V moved the papal court from Rome to Avignon in 1309 to escape the violent conflicts in Rome.The palace is essentially two joined buildings: the Old Palace of Benedict XII, a fortress-like structure, and the New Palace of Clement VI, known for its extravagant design. Key highlights include the Great Chapel, the Consistory (Audience Room), the Grand Tinel (Banquet Hall), and the Pope's private apartments, notably the Stag Room, adorned with secular frescoes. The intricate painted decor and the sheer scale of the palace reflect the artistic ambitions and the brilliance of the papal court.Visitors can explore over 25 rooms, including ceremonial halls, courtrooms, and chapels featuring frescoes by Matteo Giovanetti. The palace also organizes cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts throughout the year. The main courtyard transforms into an open-air theater during the Festival d'Avignon in the summer. A visit includes the use of an Histopad, a digital tablet providing augmented reality views of the palace as it appeared in the 14th century. This interactive experience brings history to life with mini-films, audio guides in 11 languages, and detailed information about the palace's history and architecture.