Page 50 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Provence & The Côte d'Azur

48  introducing provence

Papal Avignon

When the papacy temporarily abandoned war-torn italy, The Palais Vieux (1334–42), built by
Avignon became the centre of the roman catholic Benedict XII in typically austere
world. From 1309 until 1377 seven French popes ruled Cistercian style, is more of a fortress
than a church.
unchallenged. When a new italian pope, urban vi, was
elected, the French cardinals rebelled. in 1378 they chose
a rival pope, clement vii, thus causing a major schism Benedict XII’s cloister
that lasted until 1403. during the 14th century the Grand Tinel
papal court in Avignon became a wealthy centre for
both learning and the arts, extending Consistory Hall
its influence across the region.

Papal Throne
The Pope’s Room in the Palais des Papes
contains copies of the original 14th-century
furniture, like this carved wooden throne.

Great Courtyard
Prophets Fresco (1344–5)
Matteo Giovanetti from Viterbo
was the principal fresco-master of
Clement VI. His realism contrasts
with earlier medieval artists.

Coin of Pope
1327 Petrarch first Innocent VI
catches sight of Laura
1316–34 Reign of John XXII of Avignon, his muse 1342–52 Reign of Clement VI 1352–62 Reign of
Innocent VI
1310 1320 1330 1340 1350

1309 Papacy
moves to Avignon 1334–42 Reign of 1348 Clement VI acquires Avignon
Benedict XII
1349 Jews take refuge in the Comtat
Pope John XXII Venaissin, part of the Papal lands