Place du Palais (Palace Square), Avignon

Palace Square is one of Avignon's largest and most historic public squares. From here, you can see several major landmarks, including the Palace of the Popes, Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral, and the Little Palace Museum. The wide, open space may seem like a natural setting for these grand buildings, but it actually originated as a medieval defensive measure.

In 1404, Pope Benedict XIII feared another attack on his residence, the Palace of the Popes. With houses and narrow streets crowding against its walls, attackers could approach too easily. So, Benedict's solution was to demolish the surrounding buildings, creating an open defensive zone where enemies would be exposed to fire from the palace. The resulting space stayed covered with rubble for nearly two centuries, until the area was eventually cleared and planted with mulberry trees in the early 17th century.

Now, turn toward the Palace of the Popes, the enormous Gothic fortress dominating the eastern side of the square. You can't miss its massive stone walls, towers, and monumental entrance. Built during the 14th century, it served as the residence of the popes when the papacy was based in Avignon. Notice how its architecture combines the grandeur of a palace with the defensive features of a fortress.

Next, look to the left of the palace, toward the northern end of the square. Here stands the Little Palace Museum, recognizable by its crenellated roofline and imposing medieval façade. Once a residence for high-ranking church officials, it now houses an important collection of medieval and Renaissance art, particularly Italian paintings.

From here, look up toward the elevated ground beside the papal palace. Rising above its walls is Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral, easily identified by the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary atop its bell tower. Dating largely from the 12th century, the cathedral contains the tombs of several popes.

Now, turn toward the western side of the square, opposite the palace. Among the historic buildings, look for the former Mint, distinguished by its richly decorated 17th-century façade, complete with sculpted figures and elaborate stonework.

Palace Square also has a darker past. Once used for public executions, it later became a site for the guillotine during the French Revolution.

Today, the atmosphere is considerably more relaxed, with cafés, outdoor terraces, and a tourist road train offering sightseeing tours. Indeed, few places in Avignon bring together so much history in a single view.