Avignon

Avignon is a city steeped in history, and for that reason (plus it’s beauty) it is a wonderful place for a long weekend. Approximately an hour and a half’s drive from La Ciotat will find you on the emblematic ‘Pont de Avignon’ - world famous through its commemoration in the song. The Palais des Papes, (The Palace of the Popes) which was the residence of the Sovereign Pontiffs in the 14th century, is the biggest Gothic palace in Europe. Twentyfive rooms are open to visitors, including ceremonial rooms, chapels, cloister and private papal rooms with priceless frescoes. The ramparts encircle the entire city. They are 4.3km long and were begun in 1355 during the Papacy of Pope Innocent VI. They were completed in 1370.