The City of Popes - Avignon

Avignon is a city in southeastern France, the capital of the Vaucluse department, located on the banks of the Rhône River, and is known as the "City of Popes." Historically, the Catholic Church moved from Rome to Avignon and was controlled by the king. Many religious buildings are preserved in Avignon, such as the famous Palais des Papes. The Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Avignon Bridge, originally spanned the Rhône River, connecting Avignon and the opposite bank. It has a history of over 800 years, but was later broken by floods. The remaining part of the bridge is now a World Heritage Site and is famous for a well-known nursery rhyme. In addition, Avignon is also the venue for the Avignon Festival, one of the longest-running and most influential art festivals in France. Every July and August, during the festival, Avignon attracts many tourists and art lovers. The city attracts visitors from all over the world with its rich history and unique artistic atmosphere.