The Palais des Papes is the building that turns Avignon from a handsome Proven?al city into a world-history site. Between 1309 and 1377, seven successive popes ruled from Avignon rather than Rome after political turbulence in Italy made the old papal capital unsafe. Clement V began that relocation, and the court that followed required a palace capable of functioning as fortress, residence, chapel and administrative centre.
Why the Palace Matters
The result was one of the largest Gothic palace complexes in Europe. Its scale is not decorative excess alone: it reflects the fact that Avignon briefly operated as the effective capital of western Christendom. The palace, the episcopal ensemble, the bridge and the historic centre form the UNESCO-recognised core that most visitors come to see.
Petrarch and the Papal Court
Avignon's papal story also has a literary witness. Francesco Petrarch spent years around the papal world of Avignon and Vaucluse. The literary tradition around his Canzoniere places his first sight of Laura in Avignon in 1327, while his letters attack the corruption and worldly character of the Avignon court. Britannica notes that Petrarch referred to Avignon as Babylon; historians still use the phrase "Babylonian Captivity" for the papal residence in Avignon.
Visiting
The palace stands at the upper end of the old town, close to the Rocher des Doms gardens and a short walk from the Pont Saint-B?n?zet. It is best paired with the bridge and cathedral precinct in a single morning, with time left for the riverside or the ?le de la Barthelasse view back toward the walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the popes move to Avignon?
The move followed political instability and conflict around Rome. French-born Clement V established the papal court in Avignon, and his successors remained there for nearly seven decades.
Is the Palais des Papes separate from the Pont d'Avignon?
Yes. They are very close together and both sit within Avignon's UNESCO heritage area, but they are separate ticketed monuments.
Sources: Britannica - Avignon • Britannica - Babylonian Captivity • Fordham Medieval Sourcebook - Petrarch