Avignon
Avignon, situated in southeastern France on the left bank of the Rhône, is one of the major cities in Provence. With 90,109 inhabitants in 2008, the city is also the heart of a large urban area of 507,626 inhabitants, the Sixteenth of France for population.
The Avignon weather is a pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool winters. The city is famous for its Le Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) where the corrupt popes fled from Rome in the 14th century. The palace is the world’s largest Gothic building.
Named "City of Popes" because of the presence of the popes from 1309 to 1423, it is currently the largest city and capital of the Vaucluse department. This is one of the few French cities to have preserved its ramparts, its historic center, composed of the palace of the popes, the Rocher des Doms and the bridge of Avignon.
I) Attractions to see in Avignon
1/The City Centre.
In the city, we can walk aroud and try the high-street shops which offer a wide range of typical products, such as olive oil AOC (certified from) Provence, honey, nougats, chocolates and wines of the Côtes du Rhône.You can also do sweet break, and try the Calisson ice cream (almond paste and melon based ), simply delicious. The city offers several museums: from the Modern Art Museums to museums housing artifacts from the Roman and pre-Roman days.
2/Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes)
Not to miss , is the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), described as "The most beautiful and strongest house in the world”. The Palace was built in the fourteenth century, on the only hill close enough to that side of the Rhone, the Rocher des Doms and on this rock was built the cathedral of Notre Dame des Doms.
3/The Avignon Bridge
You should also search for the famous bridge of Avignon, the Pont Saint Benezet built in the twelfth century. Nowadays, only the left part of the bridge remains visible, the other part collapsed centuries ago. The palace of the popes and the Pont d'Avignon are classified as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
4/ The Avignon Theatre Festival
Not to miss, is the Avignon Theatre Festival, a world famous event which is held annually and where you can enjoy many art forms such as dance and music, and of course traditional theatrical shows. Founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, it is the oldest festival in France and one of the world’s greatest. Some 950 shows were performed during three weeks in 2008. The festival consists of two parts, the “in” and “Off” , the “in” festival is performed in the "Cour d'Honneur", the honours courtyard of the Palais des Papes, the place of residence of the Avignon papacy during most of the 14th century. The "Off" festival is composed mostly of theatre companies and it is performed in streets, theatres, schools and all places suitable for performing.
II) Fun and facts about Avignon
1/The Avignon citizens kiss thrice on cheeks to say hello.
2/They have a really strong accent.
3/Despite what the song can say, you can not dance in the Avignon Pont.
4/Try the Cassoulet , the canned food is really good . If you're able to heat your meal where you stay, take advantage of this easy and delicious way to dine.
5/Herbs of Provence , you should cook it with meat , it is delicious.. We found shops in Avignon to purchase some jars of these herbs.
Find your ideal Hotel in Avignon and enjoy your stay!