Avignon - Palace of the Popes

When Pope Clement VI threw his coronation party in 1342, he built wine fountains in the streets of Avignon. They ran for four weeks. Guests inside the palace drank 160,000 litres — and Clement was just getting started. He spent the next decade turning this fortress into the largest Gothic palace on earth, mostly because he needed a cellar worthy of his appetite. Seven popes lived here over 67 years, and their thirst created an entire appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape exists because the papacy needed something world-class within carting distance.

City

Avignon

Country

🇫🇷 France

Duration

Full day

Venue

📍

Avignon - Palace of the Popes

winery · Avignon

How to Complete

4 steps to experience this fully

Photo ideas: The massive Gothic halls, the cellar stairs, the papal throne room

Photo ideas: The massive Gothic halls, the cellar stairs, the papal throne room

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The Pont d'Avignon collapsed multiple times - only 4 arches survive. Roman engineering underneath.

The Pont d'Avignon collapsed multiple times - only 4 arches survive. Roman engineering underneath.

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The papal "Vin du Pape" became one of France's most famous wines - thank the vintners from Cahors

The papal "Vin du Pape" became one of France's most famous wines - thank the vintners from Cahors

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Theatre transforms the medieval city - wine under the stars in papal shadow

Theatre transforms the medieval city - wine under the stars in papal shadow

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Avignon - Palace of the Popes

Venue

How to Complete

Walk through the Palace of the Popes wine cellars

Cross the broken bridge on Roman foundations

Taste a Châteauneuf-du-Pape in honor of Pope John XXII

Visit during Festival d'Avignon (July) for the ultimate atmosphere

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