Photo by R-Cast. © Maison De La France/R-Cast
Situated on the Rhone River, Avignon has a long and rich history. Most children have heard about Avignon through the »Pont d'Avignon » nursery rhyme Avignon itself has much more to offer than the ruin of a charming 12th century bridge, and is a great central location for visiting Provence and the Camargue.Avignon was home to the Pope in the 14th century and during this century the city attracted a vibrant international crowd, with many Italians moving to the city, including the poet Petrarch. Under the Papacy, the town thrived and grew eight-fold. The world's largest Gothic edifice is the Palais des Papes, which is now the principal tourist attraction and towers over the city. UNESCO has chosen the Papal Palace and St Benezet Bridge as world heritage sites.Today, magnificent medieval ramparts surround the city as you enter. Small, charming streets wind through the town and there are many pedestrian walkways. This city of 90,000 is home to French and international university students all year long, adding a spirited ambiance. Stylish shops and many excellent restaurants attract tourists, and gracious town squares offer an excuse to linger over a cafe creme. Lately some outstanding wine bars have opened to showcase stellar, local and great value Rhone Valley wines. The summer can be very hot, but the summer Festival d'Avignon makes it the place to be. Non French speakers enjoy the concerts and dance performances. All year long the famous Mistral wind might blow from Northern Europe down the Rhone to the Mediterranean causing frigid winter days, but it is also credited for the sunny climate and clear air of Provence.
