Avignon is one of the major cities of Provence, in Southern France. It is the main city in the very popular Vaucluse region and is set on banks of the Rhône river. The city is steeped in history, painted with brilliant light, and crowned with gorgeous, Provençal blue skies. Avignon is simply lovely.
This ancient city has been continuously inhabited since the stone age. Settlements were built into and on top of the Rocher des Dames, a massive outcropping of rock rising over the banks of the Rhône. In antiquity, both the Greeks and the Romans built cities here. In the middle ages, Avignon became one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities in Europe when Pope Clement V made it seat of the papacy.
For all its historical significance, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of life and activity. Avignon is both laid-back and sophisticated. The city boasts sites such as the Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d’Avignon, but it also serves as an excellent headquarters for exploring the region. The beauty of the architecture and the natural light and warmth of the city makes it a joy to explore on foot.
The photos below present a snapshot of our life in Avignon.