Avignon is an architectural gem… fortress walls, the Pont d’ Avignon across the mighty Rhone river and a Palace for the Popes.
What’s not to love? Sometimes I drive into Avignon solely to soak up the atmosphere, to marvel at the scale of this city and to wander through the cobblestone passageways… sounds silly doesn’t it… but appreciating your surroundings can be pleasure enough… and often I can’t believe that this 14th century masterpiece is only 20 minutes drive away.
So if you have a day to spend in Avignon and you are in the mood for history… then here is what I would suggest.
*Park in the Palais des Papes car park (make sure you arrive early or the day takes on a whole level of stress that you don’t want).
*When you arrive in the forecourt of the Palace spend a moment and do a 360degree turn around to feel the majesty of this city.
* Take a tour of the Popes Palace… it is the largest Gothic Palace in the world.
*Visit the Musee du Petit Palais… a former palace for bishops and archbishops during the 14th and 15th centuries and now the home to Italian religious paintings from the 13th century.
*Hike up to the Notre Dame des Doms with the gilded Virgin statue for the most marvellous view.
* Look at the Opera House with the statues of the two French playwrights, Moliere and Corneille in front… and if you can… take a peak inside this darling little jewel box… or even better… try and stay for an evening’s opera.
* Check out the
trompe l’oeil portraits on the side of the
conseil generale building.
*Discover Pont St Benezet and learn of the legend behind Avignon’s famous landmark. Be reminded of the song, Sur le Pont d’ Avignon… I remember learning that in primary school along with Frere Jacques.
At the end the day or when you feet are squealing for respite I would suggest an
apeitif at
La Mirande, a small hotel located behind the
Palais des Papes… the decor alone will enchant you.
and if history is not your thing… check backlater for my Avignon shopping tips…. xv
