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must-visit in AvignonChurch & Religious Site

Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms

📍 Cathédrale Notre-Dame-des-Doms, 1, Montée des Moulins, Jaurès - République, Quartier Centre, Avignon, Vaucluse, Provence
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Quick Facts

Location
France, Avignon
Category
Church & Religious Site
Duration
Half day
Address
Cathédrale Notre-Dame-des-Doms, 1, Montée des Moulins, Jaurès - République, Quartier Centre, Avignon, Vaucluse, Provence
Coordinates
43.9516, 4.8076

Introduction

Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms stands at the top of the Rocher des Doms beside the Palais des Papes and is the cathedral of Avignon, an important part of the World Heritage historic centre. Predominantly Romanesque, with a heavy stone facade, it is topped by a golden statue of the Virgin, while the bell tower's bells and spire mark the city skyline. The interior is solemn and preserves the tombs and memorials of bishops and popes, the tomb of Pope John XXII being especially notable. The square in front is open and looks over the Rhône and the broken bridge — a natural stop on the way up when visiting the Palais des Papes.

✨ Highlights

01
Golden statue of the Virgin
A golden Virgin tops the stone facade — the cathedral's most striking marker.
02
Romanesque stonework
Predominantly Romanesque, with a heavy stone facade and a solemn interior.
03
Papal and episcopal tombs
Tombs and memorials of bishops and popes are preserved, the tomb of John XXII especially notable.
04
Overlooking the Rhône
The square in front looks over the Rhône and the Pont Saint-Bénézet.

🛈 Practical Info

→Time needed:About 30–45 minutes
→Etiquette:As a place of worship, keep quiet and dress respectfully
→Opening Hours:Open daily; service times may restrict visiting, so follow on-site arrangements
→Ticket Information:The cathedral is free; the bell tower and some areas may be charged
→Transportation:At the top of the Rocher des Doms beside the Palais des Papes, a short uphill walk from the centre

💡 Tips

• The cathedral, the Palais des Papes and the Rocher des Doms garden form one walkable area.
• The square in front is a good spot to look down on the broken bridge and the Rhône.
• Do not disturb services; check the notice at the door before entering.
• The climb involves steps — comfortable shoes are safer.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms?

Open daily; service times may restrict visiting, so follow on-site arrangements

How much is the admission for Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms?

The cathedral is free; the bell tower and some areas may be charged

Any practical tips for visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms?

The cathedral, the Palais des Papes and the Rocher des Doms garden form one walkable area. The square in front is a good spot to look down on the broken bridge and the Rhône.

How long should I spend at Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms?

A typical visit takes Half day.