Brief history of the Palais des Papes
The Palais des Papes was built in the 14th century when Pope Clement V decided to leave Rome, which was embroiled in local conflicts, and ultimately chose Avignon.
The Palace is actually a complex of two buildings: the old palace of Pope Benedict XII, a true fortress, and the new palace of Pope Clement VI.
The palace housed the largest library in Europe at the time and was the site of many changes within the Church.
After Urban V and then Gregory XI decided to return to Rome, the palace was occupied by papal legates and vice-legates, the most famous of whom was Cardinal Mazarin.
« Tensions rose between France and the Church in the 17th century. Kings Louis XIV and then Louis XV repeatedly occupied and annexed the city. After the Revolution, the building became a military barracks until the early 20th century, during which it was finally restored.
Today, more than 25 rooms are open to the public: audience halls, ceremonial rooms, the private apartments of the popes, two chapels with beautiful frescoes decorating the walls, and the terraces with views of the palace, Avignon, and the river. Discover the Avignon map to get an idea of the surroundings.
The Palais des Papes, a modern visit
The visit to the Palais des Papes is done with an Histopad, a digital tablet that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of the site. It is provided to each visitor. The Histopad is geolocated and automatically activates as you move from room to room.
It offers augmented reality, showing the palace as it was in the 14th century, along with audio commentary, music, texts, images, and a film. Unique in the world, the Histopad is a fun, interactive, and modern way to explore the Palais des Papes.
Hours and prices
The Palais des Papes is open every day of the year:
- From 9 AM to 7 PM in September and October.
- From 9:30 AM to 5:45 PM from November to February.
- From 9 AM to 6:30 PM in March.
- From 9 AM to 7 PM from April to June.
- From 9 AM to 8 PM in July.
- From 9 AM to 8:30 PM in August.
« For individual visits, the full price is €12.
The reduced price of €10 applies to minors over 8 years old, students, people receiving RSA (social welfare), large families, seniors over 60, and people with a disability of less than 80%.
Admission is free for children under 8, people with disabilities of 80% or more with an accompanying person, and job seekers.
Combined tickets with the Pont Saint-Bénezet are available.
« With its rich history and a unique way to explore it, the imposing Palais des Papes is a must-see visit in Avignon.
Located just over 10 kilometers northwest of the Avignon campsite, it will surely be one of the highlights of your vacation in Provence.
