Palais des Papes, Provence Travel Guide

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Explore the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe's largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings.

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Palais des Papes

The Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) in Avignon is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site served as the seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century. Explore the opulent palace and discover the history of the Avignon Papacy.

A brief summary to Palais des Papes

Pl. du Palais, Avignon, 84000, FR
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Monday 9 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
Thursday 9 am-7 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-7 pm
Sunday 9 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Palais des Papes.

Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
Take advantage of the Histopad, a free interactive tablet, to visualize the palace as it was in the 14th century.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking and many steps involved.
Check the Palais des Papes' website for special events, exhibitions, and performances.
Avignon residents can visit the Palais des Papes for free every Sunday with proof of residency.

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Explore Palais des Papes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Palais des Papes, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Avignon Centre train station, the Palais des Papes is approximately a 15-minute walk. Exit the station and walk straight along Cours Jean Jaurès. Continue until you reach Place de l'Horloge, the main square in Avignon. The Palais des Papes is located just north of the square. No costs are associated with this route.
Public Transport

From Avignon Centre train station, take the bus to the Hôtel de Ville stop. Several bus lines connect the train station to the city center, including the C3, CZI, and CZR. The bus ride takes approximately 7 minutes. From the Hôtel de Ville, it is a short walk to the Palais des Papes. A single bus ticket costs €2.
Taxi

A taxi from Avignon Centre train station to the Palais des Papes takes approximately 7 minutes. The estimated cost is between €8 and €11. Taxis are readily available outside the train station.

Discover more about Palais des Papes

The Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the power and wealth of the Roman Catholic Church during the 14th century. Constructed in less than 20 years (1335-1352), this immense 15,000 square meter palace is equal in size to four Gothic cathedrals. The palace served as the seat of papal power for seven decades.Originally, Pope Clement V moved the papal court to Avignon in 1309 to escape the chaos in Rome. Over the next decades, seven popes expanded the Palais des Papes. The palace is actually two joined buildings: the Old Palace of Benedict XII and the New Palace of Clement VI. The design and ornamentation involved some of the best architects and students of the time.Inside, visitors can explore the lavish ornamentation and art, including frescoes by Matteo Giovanetti. Highlights include the Consistory Hall, the Great Chapel, and the Pope's private apartments. The palace also hosts art exhibitions and serves as a performance venue during the Festival d'Avignon. A visit to the Palais des Papes offers a glimpse into the grandeur and political intrigue of the Avignon Papacy.