Avignon Cathedral (Cathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms)

The basics

The 4.5 ton statue atop the bell tower beckons visitors to Avignon Cathedral, which is both a National Historic Monument and part of Avignon’s historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and baroque styles, then head inside to take a peek at the 12th-century marble throne and the 17th-century apse and tribunes, as well as browse the large collection of paintings, murals, and religious icons. Don’t miss a visit to the chapel housing the tomb of Pope John XXII.

Things to know before you go

• Avignon Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon and is still a working church, with services held daily.

• Combine a visit to the cathedral with a stroll around the hilltop gardens of the Rocher des Doms just to the north—it affords beautiful views over the Rhône riverfront.

• The cathedral is perched on a hill, so be prepared to do some walking. However, there is ramp access for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Avignon Cathedral is located in the heart of the city, on the Place du Palais next door to the Palace of the Popes. You can walk there in just five minutes from the Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d’Avignon), and all of the central attractions are easily reached on foot. Several buses stop along Quai de la Ligne, just to the north.

When to get there

The cathedral is open daily to visitors and hosts mass each morning. Avignon draws huge crowds each July when the Avignon Festival—France’s oldest and most prestigious arts festival—is held throughout the city, and Avignon Cathedral hosts several concerts throughout the event.

A walking tour of Avignon’s UNESCO sites

As the former city of the Popes, Avignon bursts with historic sites, and many of its medieval monuments are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The vast Gothic Palace of the Popes is the grand centerpiece, after which you can stroll across the Pont d’Avignon and enjoy views along the River Rhône. Then, climb up to walk the city’s 14th century ramparts, and check out the medieval artworks on display at the Petit Palais Museum.