Palais des Papes 🇫🇷

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Rhône River in Avignon, the Palais des Papes is Europe's largest medieval Gothic palace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you visit this former 14th-century papal fortress and seat of Western Christianity, you step into a remarkable monument created in two main construction phases: the fortified Palais Vieux built under Pope Benedict XII and the extravagant Palais Neuf added by Pope Clement VI. Together, these joined structures encompass impressive architecture designed by master architects Pierre Peysson and Jean de Louvres.

Inside, you can explore the grand Court of Honor courtyard, high towers, and the vast 52-meter Grand Chapel. You will see surviving artistic treasures like the famous 14th-century hunting frescoes decorating Pope Clement VI’s private study, the Chambre du Cerf, alongside detailed religious paintings by Sienese artist Matteo Giovanetti inside the intimate Saint-Martial and Saint-Jean chapels. You can also wander through the vaulted Great Tinel reception hall, where historical papal conclaves once convened.

Today, this national museum continuously undergoes restoration while hosting dynamic events, from international congresses to summer performances during the annual Festival d'Avignon. It offers you a powerful glimpse into papal history, medieval grandeur, and enduring artistic achievement.

What to see at Palais des Papes

• Chambre du Cerf featuring rare 14th-century courtly hunting frescoes
• The 52-meter-long Grand Chapel built for papal worship
• Saint-Martial and Saint-Jean chapels adorned with frescoes by Matteo Giovanetti
• The Great Tinel vaulted reception room where papal conclaves were held
• The Court of Honor central courtyard surrounded by high fortified towers

Visiting tips

Plan your trip in July if you want to catch live theatrical and cultural performances hosted in the palace's central courtyard during the Festival d'Avignon.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: July

How to get there & what’s nearby

Palais des Papes is easy to reach on Avignon’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Avignon travel guide.