Two Parts Italy

Much as I love living in Italy, I also enjoy traveling to other places. France is a particular favorite, and Avignon, in the Provence Region of France, is a wonderful city to visit. I was first introduced to the Avignon many years ago when I spent a few days there before embarking on a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône Rivers, headed north through central France. I’ve returned a couple of times since and always find it fascinating for its history, culture, architecture, beautiful squares and local cuisine. And while there are many museums, churches, and historic sites to visit in Avignon, a good place to begin when visiting the city is simply by taking a walk.

Here are some of the highlights for first time visitors on a walk through Avignon:

The Pont Saint-Bénézet is a medieval bridge famous as the subject of the French song Sur le pont d’Avignon. Can you hum it? “Sur le pont d’Avignon, l’on y danse, l’on y danse”. Only four of its arches stand today (out of the original 22), ending in the middle of the river Rhône. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of Avignon and a UNESCO World Heritage site. View it for free from the riverbank or pay a fee to walk (or better yet dance) on it. After viewing the bridge, it is a short walk through the massive city walls and into the historic center.

Pont Saint-Bénézet, Avignon (photo from Pixabay)

The Palace of the Popes is a huge Gothic building in the historic center of Avignon. Built in the mid 1300’s, it served as the residence for 9 Popes during the years when the papacy moved from Rome to Avignon. Today it is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

I mostly admire the palace from the outside, standing in front of it in the large Place (Square) du Palais. The square has with wonderful views of the palace and the cathedral with the gold statue of Mary on top. First time visitors might take a break from their walk around Avignon, buy a ticket and go Inside to find frescoes, chapels, and interesting architecture but no furnishings. Guided tours (or self-guided with an app) help explain the rooms and the history.

The Place de l’Horloge (Clock Tower) is Avignon’s central, and very lively, town square. The large square is shaded by trees and ringed with cafes, restaurants, and wonderful architecture. Look for both the City Hall and the Opera House here as well as just a glimpse of the clock tower which gives the square its name.

This is also where the beautiful, old, carousel is found. If traveling with kids, this two level carousel will delight them. Even without children, it is fun to watch the carousel go round and round.

A small, charming square sits in front of the Church of St. Pierre, one of the oldest and smallest churches in Avignon. The façade is remarkable for its ornate carvings, twin spires, and stunning wooden doors. There is an impressive bell tower too. A small art gallery and the Restaurant L’Epicerie is also found in this square. It’s a great place for lunch or dinner. In good weather the outdoor seating provides a view of the church’s facade.

From Place St. Pierre it is a short walk (past some good shopping) to Les Halles, Avignon’s fabulous food hall. Making a detour through Les Halles is a gourmet dream. Also a good spot for lunch with its many little eateries.

A walk though Avignon includes some of the city’s many beautiful doors and windows.

Some of the windows are old and shuttered, some have pretty window boxes. Others are the famous painted windows. These trompe l’oeil windows are a connection to the theater festival held each summer. So don’t forget to look up at these “false windows” to see the some fun scenes.

The last stop on an introductory walk through Avignon is my favorite spot in town – the Rue des Teinturiers (Street of the Dyers).

Though a part of Avignon, the Rue des Teinturiers feels like a different place and a different century. I will write more about this fascinating street in an upcoming post.