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Sitting on the Rhône River banks, Avignon is a sprawling city known for its art festivals and the impressive Palais des Papes. Previously, crossing the Rhône was difficult and a wooden bridge was built in 1177-85. Damaged by floodwaters, the Pont d'Avignon was rebuilt and finally abandoned in the middle of the 17th century. Between 1309 and 1376, seven popes resided in Avignon, not Rome. Part of the Kingdom of Arles, Avignon was an influential centre with a population of artists, architects, clergy, and financiers.
Today, only a small percentage of Avignon's 92,000+ population lives intra muros, inside the old section's rampart walls where the immense Papal Palace dominates the skyline. Much of the old town is pedestrian-friendly and filled with charming restaurants and boutiques. Don't miss Les Halles, the indoor food market.
A great way to visit Avignon is to cross the river to L’île de la Barthelasse for the views of the Pont d'Avignon and the Popes' Palace. The most significant island within a river in Europe, discover the island on a bike or foot. With many flood events over the centuries, the island's fertile soil makes for excellent farmland for fruit trees and vegetables.
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Happy weekend,
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