Papal Palace is a historical palace in Avignon, southern France, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. As a one time fortress and palace, the papal residence was the seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century. Six papal conclaves were held in the Palais, leading to the elections of Benedict XII in 1334, Clement VI in 1342, Innocent VI in 1352, Urban V in 1362, Gregory XI in 1370 and Antipope Benedict XIII in 1394.
Viewing the preserved stone ramparts, the massive medieval fortress of the Papal Palace
The Palais is actually made up of two buildings: the old Palais of Benedict XII which sits on the impregnable rock of Doms, and the new Palais of Clement VI, the most extravagant of the Avignon popes. Not only is the final combination the largest Gothic building of the Middle Ages, it is also one of the best examples of the International Gothic architectural style.
In the following centuries, the Palais lost all of its former glory, despite it serving as the seat of two anti-popes and many cardinals. It has sense of beauty, simplicity, grandeur and immortality. Since 1995, the Palais des Papes has been classified, along with the historic center of Avignon, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Serene sights
The gardens
Avignon Guide
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