Avignon Cathedral
Next to the Palais des Papes in Avignon is the 12th-century Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms.
History of Avignon Cathedral
The cathedral was first built in a pure Provençal Romanesque style in the 12th century but was soon dwarfed by the extravagant palace that rose beside it.
An attempt to remedy this was made in the 14th century with the addition of a cupola, which promptly collapsed. Rebuilt in 1425, it is a Byzantine-like marvel of stacked arches.
Baroque galleries were added in the 17th century and crowning the top of the cathedral is a huge gilded Virgin Mary lantern from the 19th century, whose glow can be seen for miles around.
What to See at Avignon Cathedral
Inside, the cathedral contains the Flamboyant Gothic tombs of some of the Avignon popes. Like most of Avignon's churches, the cathedral was sacked during the Revolution.
From the cathedral, enter the promenade du Rocher-des-Doms to stroll through its garden and enjoy the view across the Rhône to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
Quick Facts on Avignon Cathedral
| Site Information | |
| Names: | Avignon Cathedral · Cathédrale Notre Dame-des-Doms |
|---|---|
| Country: | France |
| Categories: | cathedrals; World Heritage Sites |
| Styles: | Romanesque |
| Dates: | 12th C |
| Status: | active |
| Visitor and Contact Information | |
| Coordinates: | 43.951451° N, 4.807827° E |
| Address: | Place du Palais Avignon, France |
| Phone: | 04-90-86-81-01 |
| Hours: | daily 9am-noon and 2-6pm |
| Lodging: | View hotels near Avignon Cathedral |
References
- Personal visits (2000 and June 18, 2008).
- Official Site of the Palais des Papes (French, English and Italian)
- Frommer's Provence & the Riviera, 5th Edition
- Historic Centre of Avignon - UNESCO World Heritage
More Information
- Photos of Avignon Cathedral - here on Sacred Destinations
Map of Avignon Cathedral
Below is a location map and aerial view of Avignon Cathedral. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.