Amateurs of live drama and medieval history, take note that one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious theater festivals is shaping up again in the latest event in Avignon. Indeed, during the traditional three weeks in July, the 64th Festival d’Avignon will offer hundreds of shows presented as part of the official selection (“in”) or the alternative scene (“off”).
All kinds of productions will spring up within the ancient city walls of Avignon, whether in the Papal Palace’s courtyard, in actual theaters, in temporary spaces or in the middle of the streets. Even the non-Francophiles can partake in the festivities by attending presentations in English, dance performances or pantomimes, so do not let the language barrier stop you. And if you are determined to watch a show in Molière’s tongue, a generous glass of local côtes du rhône wine will help you refresh your high-school French in no time!
Another worthy cultural event is the Avignon Film Festival which, like its New York twin, takes place in June. Aimed at encouraging independent film-makers in their out-of-the-box endeavors, this truly transatlantic affair gives an ever-needed boost to new and upcoming directors by organizing screenings, retrospectives, panel discussions and debates. Far from the exclusive atmosphere of the Cannes Film Festival, you will actually be able to exchanges ideas with the artists and later brag about it.
For either event, or if you’re just planning to take it easy, we have here several accommodations in Avignon that will not fail to please you.
If you’re coming by yourself or with a significant other, you cannot do better than our Avignon One Bedroom Vacation Rental Apartment (PR-988). Located in a blissfully quiet street right downtown, it has many modern features such as a flat-screen TV with cable, a DVD player and DSL.
If you’re planning to stay in Avignon as part of a group, our Hosted Four-Bedroom Avignon Bed and Breakfast (PR-325) is just what you need, and we’re not just saying that because of its incredible terrace offering a priceless view over the nearby Papal Palace and the surrounding rooftops.
The reign of Avignon as the religious, political and cultural center of Christendom lasted only 68 years, but the magnificent Papal Palace still effortlessly dominates the city, a truly stunning monument to the immense power of the papacy in the Middle Ages. A visit to the city would not be complete without an exhaustive tour of its numerous rooms, but make sure to come early to beat the crowds, an easy enough move if you’re staying in one of our rentals nearby.
Not as imposing but definitely more entrenched in popular French culture, the 13th century Saint-Bénézet Bridge in Avignon is first and foremost famous for the 16th century song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” (“On the Avignon Bridge”), but also for its huge strategic importance back in the days as the only crossing over the Rhône river between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea and as a border post between the French territory and the Papal State. After several severe floods, only four arches remain, but it is still a favorite recreation spot.
No matter what you’re looking for, Avignon has something for you. Feel free to share your own experience of it in the comment section below.
What a beautiful picture of Avignon!!!
what a gorgeous pic that is! really makes a person wanna go to Avignon if this is what the scenery is like
The Bed and Breakfast sounds like a great idea, so you can have accomodation and breakfast and still move around in the Provence area during the day.
After seeing these photographs I would really love to visit Avignon.
I just returned for the best trip ever to a little town of Caromb. Any of you wanting to vist France needs to do so. I was able to spend time in Avignon and it is amazeing…The food is great along with the markets which are daily in each little village. If any of you would like to know more let me know….For all of you going to France enjoy it is a trip you will never forget..
Oh and make sure to dring a glass of wine for me……