The Palais des Papes
by rickyvilla81
Back in 1309 it was decided that the Pope would not live in Rome, as had been the case, but would relocate to Avignon in the south of what became France. This walled papal territory - which included the region of Chateauneuf-des-papes, now famed for it's delicious wine - remained independent of the French Kings until the Revolution, when finally Napoleon Bonaparte marched in. The popes lived in the Palais des Papes until 1377, when there arose the Great Schism, and the Catholic Church was divided. From this time onwards there were two Popes, one in Rome, one here, until 1417.
You can explore the massive Palace, or just look around the ramparts, and take in a bite to eat and some music in the main square (Place du Palais).
If you're intending to drive...
by Krystynn
If you're intending to drive around this part of France i.e. Provence/ Avignon, perhaps you'd like to take note of the following:
(1) Before you drive, DO ask the RAC or AA for advice on special car requirements. HEAVY on-the-spot fines (to as high as US$800) can be imposed for driving offences. Not kidding. Failure to pay can result in the car being impounded. Driving licences can also be confiscated.... and without a second driver, you will definitely be unable to continue your journey by car!
(2) DON'T leave your baggage(s), particularly your valuables, inside unattended cars. DO be wary of theft when attending to a punctured tyre or when stopping at traffic lights.... and in particular when driving cars hired in France bearing a '51' number plate.
An ex-colleague of mine rented a car in Spain... and left his luggages inside the car while he entered a local AVIS office to return the car keys. He came out 2 minutes later and found his luggages missing! Yes, just TWO MINUTES and his luggages went missing. It was never discovered.
Moral of the story: Better be extra-cautious than sorry!
Photo Below: The beautiful Rue des Teinturiers area....
Eating outside
by queenpud about Number 75
A lovely place to dine al fresco. The food is good and well presented. It was always a pleasure to dine there.
Set behind an iron gate, 75 feels like a secret garden, fragrant with mimosa, bougainvillea, and lemon. The former mansion of Jules Pernod, creator of the famous anisette liqueur that still bears his name. Casual and elegant. Run by the famous chef Robert Brunel who also owns the Brunel Restaurant in Aignon.
Wine tasting and wine route in Provence
by provencelover
B&B "Mas du Clos de l'Escarrat " located in Provence
Charles and Andree hosted us as their friends.
If ever more sumptuous décor and glitzy bathrooms have started to pall, try a return to simplicity. This 17th-century stone farmhouse is pleasingly quiet and unassuming all among the vines, gazing on distant mountains. The gîtes – two apartments and two small studios – are basic but very pleasant, decorated in soft yellow tones. Provençal fabrics and some unexpected features – a marble table, a beautiful pottery bowl – add arresting touches.
We've been extremely satisfied with the "wine route tour" that Charles organized for us : wonderful landscapes, divine wines, excellent dinner and very nice apartment at "Le Mas". In the morning : breakfast with toooooo much croissants and French baguette...
If you wish to understand the wine cultural and social impact on French "art de vivre" take this tour ! Charles has chosen a selection of wineries where professional oenologists will explain you the art of wine making. And while he drives your car without drinking a drop of wine (as it is admitted, sometimes he tastes and spits), you can fully enjoy the pleasure of tasting without taking any risk on the road.And Charles and Andree B&B is so near Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes de Venise that you'll be able to taste a wide variety of "crus".
LE PONT D'AVIGNON \ PONT SAINT - BENEZET
by LoriPori
Made famous by the well-loved children's song ♫ Sur Le Pont D'Avignon ♫ , the bridge was built during the 12th century, linking Avignon to Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, which belonged to the King of France. According to legend, the young shepherd Benezet heard divine voices bidding him to build the bridge. It was originally 900 metres long and crossed the two arms of the Rhone river, which was highly turbulent and wild waters. The frequent high waters eventually washed away much of the bridge and after the 17th century, was no longer re-built.
Salle des Spectacle
The Lake and Lunch Site On Rocher des Dom
avignon
Pont Saint Bénézet/Pont d'Avignon (France)
