A UNSECO World Heritage Site, Avignon has been nicknamed ‘Second Rome’ because it has been the favored papal residence of several popes during the 14th century. This town became a part of France during the French Revolution in 1791, and is today the capital of the Vaucluse department within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Avignon owes the origin of its name to the Celts who had named the area ‘The Avenio’ or ‘Town of Violent Winds.’
Reputed to be one of the most beautiful cities in France, Avignon has several old churches such as St. Didier, St. Peter, and St. Agricola, which had been built by Popes and other dignitaries and has gained the reputation of being the ‘holy town’ in the country. However, it’s not just tourism alone that drives the economy of the city. The trail transport, fresh market products, silk, madder root trade among other has prompted Avignon as the commercial capital of the nation.
This city in the South of France is world renowned for two very popular attractions – the Pope’s Palace or Le Palais des Papes and St Benezet Bridge or Pont St Benezet (made famous in the song ‘Sur le pont d'Avignon, on y danse, on y danse...'). With tall and elegant, ornate spires the awe-inspiring Pope’s Palace is extremely beautiful both inside and out. The multi-vaulted, 12th century old Pont St Bénezet was constructed to transport St Bénezet across to the neighboring Villeneuve village, and has only 4 arches remaining now.
Avignon’s narrow, cobbled streets reveal small and large chapels, churches, and convents, each with its own history to tell. Most of these religious places date back to the 14 century when Avignon was the center of Christianity. Other attractions include Cathédrale Notre Dame-des-Doms a Romanesque cathedral built in 12th-century and next door to Pope’s Palace next door. The Avignon Synagogue and Musee du Petit Palais are also interesting structures in Avignon.
The Avignon Festival that is organized during July attracts all types of upcoming artists and art aficionados. With 40 different performance oriented acts set against the background of the Palais des Papes, this festival is a hot favorite for tourists.
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Avignon is not just blessed with an air of spirituality, but also with pleasant climate. Situated on the River Rhone, Avignon is as colorful and mesmerizing as a Van Gogh. The tall church spires, the atmosphere of traditionalism, quite streets, secret gardens, small and cozy street side cafes, and wonderful restaurants, all make Avignon a perfect romantic getaway destination in France!