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 Avignon traces its origins back to the big rock known as the “Rocher des Doms”, a natural stronghold above the Rhone valley. Avignon, which is thought to mean “city of the river” or “city of the strong wind” occupies a naturally strategic position.
Avignon was already a major city in the 12th century, due in particular to the presence of the bridge, the famous Pont d'Avignon, which spanned the Rhone, enabling travellers to go from one side to the other. With the arrival of the Popes in the 14th century, Avignon became a second Rome. A land of refuge.
Avignon was a thriving city and drew foreigners, religious communities, artists, businessmen, bankers and even political exiles such as Petrarch, the Italian poet. Art flourished in Avignon.
Avignon remained the possession of the popes up until the French Revolution.
Later the city grew beyond the ramparts. Explore the streets of Avignon, from the pedestrian streets to the chic shopping streets of Joseph Vernet and St. Agricol. Stroll the Balance neighbourhood, and the main street – Rue de la République. There are many great, interesting shops, and of course fabrics from Provence, ceramics, pottery, santons, artisanat and other regional specialties.
The Festival d'Avignon was founded by Jean Vilar in 1947, and is one of the oldest and most famous theatre festivals in the world. Each year, a guest artist is featured at the Festival, influencing the choice of programming and inspiring discussion. The Avignon Festival takes place during three entire weeks during the month of July, presenting the very best contemporary productions in the performing arts. The Avignon Festival brings together artists and audiences from wide horizons, different origins and generations. It is both avant-garde and a source of theatrical reference, with more than 40 different shows given in twenty different venues, ranging from small chapels with a hundred seats, to the legendary Honour Courtyard at the Palace of the Popes, which seats 2000 viewers.
For more information on the city of Avignon
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