684km (425 miles) S of Paris; 80km (50 miles) NW of Aix-en-Provence; 106km (66 miles) NW of Marseille
In the 14th century, Avignon was the capital of Christendom -- the popes lived here instead of in Rome. The legacy left by their "court of splendor and magnificence" makes Avignon one of the most interesting and beautiful of Europe's medieval cities.
The popes are long gone, but life goes on exceedingly well without them. Today this walled city of some 100,000 residents reaches its peak celebration time during the famous Festival d'Avignon, a 3-week stint of music, art, and theater when bacchanalia reigns in the streets. Avignon at any time of the year is a major stopover on the route from Paris to the Mediterranean. Lately, it has become well-known as a cultural center as artists and painters in increasing numbers have been moving here. Experimental theaters, painting galleries, and art cinemas have brought diversity to the inner city, especially rue des Teinturiers.
