Avignon

terça-feira, 2 de setembro de 2014

Avignon - South of France

Postado em 18:21 por Unknown

We went to Avignon by the quick road to arrive soon. In Avignon we enter by car in the city intra-muros. It was an adventure! Because some streets are very narrow and winding, it seemed we were in a maze. Of course we didn't find a parking spot! We chose to leave and park outside. Sign out ?? How ?? After a few minutes in this stress, we parked the car in a large parking lot that was free in front of a rampart.

Car Parking

Now walk within the walled city, we went to the Tourism Office, to get a map and information. From this point we went to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic building in Europe, passed through the central street with its numerous shops. It was very busy due to the summer festival.

Palais des Papes

At the Palais des Papes we acquired the ticket that includes the audioguide. The site is large with many rooms and lots of history.

Palais des Papes' Hall

It is interesting to climb to the top and watch the view of the city.

View of the city

Before that, we went to Rocher des Doms, a small beautiful park on top of a cliff with a beautiful view of the river Rhône. Stands beside the Pallas of the Papes.

Gates to Rocher

Street to access the park

We stopped to eat and relax a bit. Then we walk through many streets of the city and returned a little to visit the old City Hall, the Opera.

Theater festival

Returning to Pont Saint-Benezet.

Shops

The road to the bridge is a perdition , many shops with the charm of Provence. The scents of Provence .....

Bridge Saint-Benezet

The Saint-Benezet Bridge is a medieval building, which is a World Heritage Site, was built between 1171 and 1185 and part of it was destroyed in 1226 after a siege by Louis VIII. Today, the bridge has only 4 of the original 22 arches and many stories to tell. Worth entering the bridge (ticket also includes audio guide) and hear its story walking through it. More photos ....