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History & Culture |
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The prehistoric origins of inhabitance in the area presently known as Avignon, date back to the Neolithic period. As the Celtic-Lingurian tribes traveled south through present day France they would set up a community on the left bank of the Rhine River and call the land Cavares. When the Romans founded their north-south trade route, Avignon was in it''s path, and though the city was not included in the east-west trade route, it''s location on the rivers edge made it an important commercial center. The increased economic activity spurred the development of the town and expansion began towards the Rocher des Doms. Avignon remained an integral port for the Romans through the 5th century. Leading up to the Middle Ages the village was continuously invaded by the barbarians; at different points Avignon was occupied by the Goths, Burgundians, Ostrogoths, Saracens and finally the Franks, who destroyed the city in 737 after the people took a stance against Charles Martel and aligned themselves with Arabs against him.
The city''s religious significance dates back as early as the 1st century when it was the seat of a bishop. The Palace of the Popes was constructed on the Rocher des Doms in 1305. This magnificent structure solidified the town as a significant papal state, and became the official residence of the Pope four years later. So significant was Avignon, that it was purchased outright from Queen Joanna I of Sicily in 1348 by Pope Clement VI. Soon after construction began on the territorial fortifications surrounding the village. The city walls were not particularly strong fortifications, but they needn''t be as the Gothic Palace walls had been constructed with natural rock and were nearly 20 feet thick making it all but indestructable. The city walls and the Palace of the Popes are two of the most well maintained creations from medieval times. Following reorganization after the Great Schism Avignon would become an archbishopric (archiepiscopal) in the late 15th century and would continue to be governed by legates as a papal territory even following the departure of the popes from the city. But the security of the city continued to be threatened by the French crown whose imposing barracks was just across the Rhine at Villeneuve-les-Avignon. During the reign of King Louis XIV the French occupied the entire area surrounding Avignon, this area was refered to as the Comtat Venaissin, and papacy would lose Avignon for good in 1791 when the city would be incorporated with France following the French Revolution.
The city walls and ancient medieval buildings and churches make Avignon a most desireable tourist destination. There is a wealth of history and an air of medieval charm that captivates people who travel through the city. Perhaps what makes the people of Avignon particularly unique is their great appreciation for the arts. Throughout the year, but especially during the summer months, the city hosts festivals which celebrate theatre, dance, music and cinema. In fact, during the Avignon Festival, which is truly the pinnacle of activity during the year, the streets are fulled with marvelously enchanting artists and actors. Street plays set against the back drop of the town''t historical monuments make for a truly special occasion. Avignon at any time of the year, should top your list of destinations on your France travel itinerary.
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