The Pope’s Palace, Avignon overlooks the iconic bridge on the river Rhone and is one of the most important medieval Gothic structures in Europe.
Covering 15,000 square feet, it is the largest Gothic palace in the world. Built as a fortress and palace, it became the papal residence and the heart of Western Christianity in the 14th century when the papacy moved from Rome to Avignon.
The palace held six papal conclaves, leading to the elections of six popes. Each pope left his mark and the palace came to symbolize the powerful influence of the Catholic Church. It has the largest library in Europe, and was a gathering place for thinkers, composers, philosophers and musicians. Today a tourist attraction, the palace has a rich and turbulent history of rebellion, pilgrimage, enlightenment and massacre.
Address: Place du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France