The Bridge of Avignon
by rickyvilla81
The famous bridge, which once linked Avignon to it's neighbour Villeneuve-lèz-avignon over the Rhone, was built between 1177 and 1185, but came into being in a biblical way. A herdsman, Benedict Benezet, who had never even been to Avignon before, was sitting contentedly in a meadow tending his flock (as countrymen sometimes do, it is said) when he heard an almighty Voice from God instructing him to build a big bridge over the Rhone. Before he could say, Sorry Mate, Wrong Number, the Voice went away, and left him with his task.
Sadly for him, in 1669 a great flood came and washed away much of the bridge, making it little more than a pier. And that is what we have today.
Orange
by robertgaz
About 20km's north of Avignon is the town of Orange which has some well preserved Roman architecture.
There is the Triumphal Arch which was built between 10 and 25 AD and also a Roman Theatre with a 103m long facade.
LE PONT D'AVIGNON \ PONT SAINT -BENEZET
by LoriPori
Originally spanning 22 arches, only four of those remain onLE PONT D'AVIGNON after the ravages of water, time and wars took its toll. The bridge was a vital link for trade and travel for Avignon.
The view from the bridge is excellent.
The Popes' Palace
by egonwegh
In the 14th century, the Holy Seat was moved from Rome to this town. Nine popes governed the Roman Catholic Church from Avignon. The Palace as seen from Villeneuve-les-Avignon across the river Rhone.
Le Rhône
by MM212
The river Rhône has been central to the existence of Avignon since its founding in Gallo-Roman times. The river demarcates the city on its northern and western sides, although it is concealed by the medieval walls. While blessed by the proximity to the river, Avignon has sometimes suffered from the Rhône's occasional excessive flooding, such as that of the 17th century which caused the partial destruction of le Pont d'Avignon. Today the Rhône adds to the scenery of the city. A walk along its bank is quite pleasant, particularly when lavender is in full bloom (see photos).
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Wall of Holding Pond
Upper Tower and Statue On Top
Rocher des Doms Gardens (Avignon, France)
Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms (Avignon, France)
