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St Martial Temple: A Historical Sanctuary in Avignon

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Discover Avignon's St Martial Temple: a serene sanctuary with a rich history, from Benedictine monastery to Protestant church.

The St Martial Temple in Avignon is a Protestant church with a rich history, originally built in the 14th century as a Benedictine monastery. It has served multiple roles, including a museum and school, before becoming a Protestant church in 1881.

A brief summary to St Martial Temple

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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St Martial Temple.

  • Visit on Sunday at 10 am for liturgical services by the Protestant Church of France.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the charming streets of Avignon and explore nearby shops and cafes.
  • Take a moment to relax in the peaceful courtyard with leafy trees surrounding the temple.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    St Martial Temple is located at 2 Rue Jean Henri Fabre, easily accessible from central Avignon. From the Palais des Papes, walk south along Place du Palais, continuing onto Rue de la République. Turn left onto Cours Jean Jaurès, then turn left onto Rue Jean Henri Fabre; the Temple will be on your right. From Avignon Centre train station, walk straight ahead on Avenue Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, which becomes Cours Jean Jaurès. Turn right onto Rue Jean Henri Fabre. The temple will be on your right. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Avignon Centre train station, exit and head towards the bus terminal. Take bus line 2 towards Avignon Centre. Disembark at the 'Jean Jaurès' stop. Walk straight for about 5 minutes along Rue de la République until you reach Rue Jean Henri Fabre. Turn left, and St Martial Temple will be on your right. A single ticket costs €1.40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the Avignon Centre train station and other major taxi ranks. A taxi ride from the train station to St Martial Temple is a short trip, costing approximately €10-€15.

Discover more about St Martial Temple

St Martial Temple, located in Avignon, is a captivating Protestant church with a multifaceted past. Originally constructed in the 14th century (completed in 1388) as a monastery and school for the Benedictine monks of Cluny, the temple has undergone several transformations throughout its history.In the 17th century, the structure was expanded, but it was later abandoned during the French Revolution. Before becoming a Protestant church in 1881, it served as home to the Calvet Museum and the Natural History Museum of Avignon, where the renowned entomologist Jean-Henri Fabre served as curator and lectured alongside poet Stéphane Mallarmé. It also functioned as a Teachers' College, a Post Office, and a Tourism Office.Today, St Martial Temple offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. Its architecture showcases a blend of styles, with remnants of its Gothic origins and later Neoclassical influences. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows that cast vibrant colors across the space, creating an atmosphere of serenity and reflection. The temple stands as a testament to Avignon's rich cultural and religious heritage, inviting visitors to explore its history and appreciate its peaceful ambiance. The monumental gate was redesigned by the architect Pierre Mignard in 1700.

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