Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms, Avignon
Notre-Dame-des-Domes (left) next to the Palais. Photo
Sean Munson.
Cathedral (left) and tower of the Palais by night. Photo
Gordon Joly.
The strong tower of Avignon's cathedral. Photo
Louise Joly.
Gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. Photo
elbisreverri.Next to the Palais des Papes in Avignon is the 12th-century Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms. The cathedral was first built in a pure Provençal Romanesque style in the 12th century but was soon dwarfed by the extravagant palace that rose beside it.
An attempt to remedy this was made in the 14th century with the addition of a cupola, which promptly collapsed. Rebuilt in 1425, the cupola is a Byzantine-like marvel of stacked arches.
The Baroque galleries were added in the 17th century and crowning the top of the cathedral is a huge gilded Virgin Mary lantern from the 19th century, whose glow can be seen for miles around.
Inside, the cathedral contains the Flamboyant Gothic tombs of some of the Avignon popes. Like most of Avignon's churches, the cathedral was sacked during the Revolution.
From the cathedral, enter the promenade du Rocher-des-Doms to stroll through its garden and enjoy the view across the Rhône to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
Quick Facts
| Type of site: | Cathedral |
| Faith: | Roman Catholic |
| Date: | 12th-century |
| Status: | Active |
| Location: | Place du Palais (north side of the Palais des Papes) |
| Phone: | 04-90-86-81-01 |
| Hours: | Hours vary according to religious ceremonies but are generally daily 9am-noon and 2-6pm |
| Cost: | Free |
Travel Resources
- Avignon Map - our interactive city map plus links to more online maps
- Avignon History - short history of the papal city of France
- Avignon Guided Tours - sightseeing tours, activities and excursions
- Avignon Hostels - search and book budget lodgings
- Avignon Hotel Reviews - unbiased reviews from fellow travelers
- Avignon Car Rentals - explore Provence with a car from Avignon
- Avignon Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Avignon
Sources
- Personal visit (2000).
- Official Site of the Palais des Papes (French, English and Italian)
- Frommer's Provence & the Riviera, 5th Edition
- Historic Centre of Avignon - UNESCO World Heritage
Location Map
Below is a location map and aerial view of Avignon Cathedral. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Avignon Map or get our free Google Earth download.
