Avignon: Palais des Papes
A palace and fortress in one
Although now empty apart from its visitors, the huge Papal Palace with its vast spaces is a very impressive site dominating the centre of the old town of Avignon.
In effect a fortress as well as a Palace because Medieval Popes were political figures who had to defend themselves. In fact, the Palace was besieged on several occasions e.g. in 1398 and again in 1410 and 1411.
Austere and Flamboyant Pontiffs
Constructed during the 14th century, the Palace is really in two parts. The original part is the austere Palais Vieux built by the Cistercian Benedict XII. Flamboyant Clement IV’s Palais Neuf is much more sumptuous, especially inside, although the exterior blends with the Palais Vieux well.