The Palais des Papes was built in the 14th century as a fortress, residence and administrative centre for the popes who left Rome. Benedict XII began the austere Palais Vieux in 1335 and Clement VI added the more decorative Palais Neuf from 1342, creating a complex of ten towers, a great chapel and the vast Cour d'honneur, which hosts the Festival d'Avignon. Frescoes by Matteo Giovannetti survive in the Chapelle Saint-Jean and Chapelle Saint-Martial, and the Grand Tinel and Chambre du Cerf preserve the papal ceremonial rooms. After the popes left, the palace became a barracks and prison until the 20th century. Visits follow a self-guided route with a multimedia guide, and the rooftop gives views over the city.
| Admission | About EUR 14.50 (~$17); combined ticket with Pont d'Avignon about EUR 17 (~$20) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily; typically 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (extended hours in summer, confirm locally) |
| Address | Place du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France |
Why it matters
Largest Gothic palace in Europe and the home of seven popes during the Avignon papacy; the 'Old' and 'New' palaces form a fortress-palace that dominates the city.
Site facts
- Built
- 1335-1352
- Architect
- Pierre Poisson, Jean de Louvres
- Style
- Provençal Gothic
- UNESCO listing
- Yes, part of the Historic Centre of Avignon (1995)
Location
Place du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France
43.9508, 4.8075 View on map
Highlights
- Cour d'honneur, the festival's main stage
- Chambre du Cerf with 14th-century hunting frescoes
- Chapelle Saint-Jean frescoes by Matteo Giovannetti
- Grand Tinel banquet hall and rooftop views
Tips for visiting
- Buy a timed ticket online at palais-des-papes.com to skip the queue in July.
- Allow 1.5-2 hours; the multimedia guide is included in the standard visit.
- Visit when it opens in the morning to avoid tour groups.
When to visit
Morning on weekdays; avoid July afternoons.
Accessibility
The route involves steps and uneven floors, but lifts serve parts of the visit; contact the palace for wheelchair route details.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How much is entry?
The 2026 adult ticket is about EUR 14.50 (~$17), or EUR 17 (~$20) combined with Pont d'Avignon; check palais-des-papes.com.
Is the palace open every day?
It is open daily with seasonal opening times, usually 9:00 to 18:00 or later in summer; check before visiting.