Avignon

• Avignon, a strategic site in the Rhone valley located at the confluence of the Rhône and Durance rivers, is well known for its ramparts, its famous Pont Saint-Bénezet, famous the world over in the beloved children's song,  and the Palais des Papes, testimony to its prestigious past as Capital of Christianity in the Middle Ages .  Because of its imposing majestic architecture this palace is classified as a World Heritage of Humanity site.

Flood, fire, pillaging, plague and Le Mistral (a violent, cold and northwesterly wind) have all ravaged Avignon, but this fascinating beautiful city has remained intact. Around every corner of the narrow, winding cobbled streets, elaborately decorated chapels, churches and convents can be discovered. Most date from the 14th century, when Avignon became the centre of Christendom and the Palais des Papes was home to a series of popes becoming a second Rome. It was enriched by art in the 17th and 18th Centuries, and it remained papal property up to the French revolution.
In Avignon, everything worth seeing is within easy walking distance and orientation is not difficult. The city is enclosed in fortified medieval walls, with the River Rhône to the north and west of the town.  The Palais des Papes and Pont St Bénezet are in the north, connected by the lively square and place du Palais, which itself runs into Avignon's central square (place de l'Horloge) just a little south. This square is home to the impressive Hôtel de Ville and the beautiful Opera House.  You will also find many restaurants and cafés with terraces to sit on in the summer whilst watching actors taking part in the Festival.

Avignon also has a cluster of interesting little museums that are clearly listed on this site and you will find plenty of information and maps at the Avignon Tourist Office.  You may also take a ride on the famous white train at the foot of the palace for a guided tour around the town.

The famous annual Avignon theatre festival runs throughout July in the summer and has been the international meeting point for contemporary creation over the past 60 years.  It was founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar and every summer nearly 120,000 spectators come to discover new talent or admire those already known.   It takes place in the streets and many theatres of the historical centre of Avignon and is without doubt the most important theatrical art manifestation and living spectacle in France.

The Off Festival is a series of street shows performed by would be actors and is considered to be an excellent experience for aspiring young people. Late at night the terraces fill up with actors and spectators who create a magical atmosphere found only in Avignon in the summer.