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Popes of Avignon: A Century in Exile 
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



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.