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Avignon: History and Culture in the South of France!
Avignon, France, located in the Provence region and close to the Languedoc border, is as rich with culture and heritage as any town in France. A walled city, Avignon is a model of medieval architecture situated on the banks of the Rhone River. It is a city of magnificent scenery, quiet little streets lined with sidewalk cafes, open squares peppered with excellent restaurants, and enough historical and cultural attractions to keep a vacationer busy for a month of Sundays. Except for the legendary, though infrequent, Le Mistral winds, Avignon's moderate climate makes it a perfect spot for basing your French vacation.
The can't-miss sight in town is the Palais de Papes, the huge Gothic palace that housed the papal court during the time when the Popes made Avignon their base after fleeing Rome's volatility. The palace sits perched on a hill overlooking Avignon, and the views from the battlements of the surrounding valley should not be missed. The Musee du Petit Palais, at the north end of the grounds, houses an excellent collection of 13th to 16th century Italian religious paintings. In the summer, the official Festival of Avignon is held in the palace's main courtyard. This world-famous festival is dominated by theatrical performers from all over the world. An alternative festival, Festival Off, also runs at the same time. The festival utilizes hundreds of small venues in and around the city for more obscure performances.
History buffs and art lovers can share their passions during a visit to the Musée Lapidaire. This former 17th century church houses an interesting collection of Gallo-Roman sculptures. The exhibits follow the history of the various civilizations that have grown the Provence region. There is also a large number of sarcophagi and funeral art on display. You could also visit the Musée d'Art Contemporain, which houses a collection of modern art on permanent loan from an Avignon citizen. Over 350 works display every major movement of the modern era. Some of the artists represented are Robert Ryan, Brice Marden, Carl Andre, Gordon Matta-Clark, Anselm Kieffer, Christian Boltanski, Andreas Serrano, and Douglas Gordon.
"Sur le pont d'Avignon on y danse, on y danse ..." Those lyrics from a 19th century song draw visitors in droves to Pont St Bénezet Bridge, which spans two sections of the Rhone River and a small island that sits out in the water. The bridge was named for a local shepherd who supposedly had a heavenly vision that led to the bridge being built. The four arches spanning the bottom portion of the bridge are all that is left of the 22 sections that were built originally. A small church adorns the middle of the bridge and still has services on holidays.
Avignon has something that will satisfy the traveler in all of us. Shopping fans will want to look for that special antique to remind them of their visit in Provence. Avignon is also famous for the quality of its fabrics. Visit Notre-Dame des Doms, a cathedral near the Palais de Papes. Hire a car and drive to Vaison-la-Romaine, a village close to Avignon famous for its open air market. Or head to Gordes, which lies atop the Vaucluse Plateau, for an incredible view of both the Sorgue and Calavon Rivers. Avignon is a never-ending gift bag of beauty and history, all neatly wrapped with a gorgeous French bow!
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Beautiful, renovated 19th century French 'Mas' on overlooking Luberon mountains — Property 218845
- House
- 5 bedrooms , sleeps 10
- rural
- pool
- Rates (shown in USD)
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Spacious Luxury Villa & Pool in Perfect Location — Property 116591
- Villa
- 4 bedrooms , sleeps 9
- 2 bathrooms
- 1 half bathroom
- barbecue
- fireplace
- Rates (shown in USD)
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