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684km (425 miles) S of Paris; 80km (50 miles) NW of Aix-en-Provence; 106km (66 miles) NW of Marseille
In the 14th century, Avignon was the capital of Christendom -- the popes lived here instead of in Rome. The legacy left by their «court of splendor and magnificence» makes Avignon one of the most interesting and beautiful of Europe`s medieval cities.
The popes are long gone, but life goes on exceedingly well. Today this walled city of some 100,000 residents reaches its peak celebration time during the famous Festival d`Avignon, a 3-week stint of music, art, and theater when bacchanalia reigns in the streets. Avignon at any time of the year is a major stopover on the route from Paris to the Mediterranean. Lately, it has become well known as a cultural center. Artists and painters in increasing numbers have been moving here. Experimental theaters, painting galleries, and art cinemas have brought diversity to the inner city, especially rue des Teinturiers.
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