Avignon Cathedral
Archbishopric of Avignon·Roman Catholic·France
Avignon Cathedral, officially Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon, is a Romanesque Roman Catholic cathedral located in Avignon, France, adjacent to the Palais des Papes. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon and is recognized for its significant architectural history and its inclusion as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Avignon.
Key Facts
- ›Constructed primarily in the second half of the 12th century, it is a Romanesque building.
- ›The bell tower collapsed in 1405 and was rebuilt in 1425.
- ›The apse was rebuilt and extended in 1670–1672, leading to the destruction of the medieval cloister.
- ›The cathedral was reconsecrated in 1822 after being abandoned during the Revolution.
- ›A prominent gilded statue of the Virgin Mary was added to the bell tower in 1859.
- ›It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Avignon, recognized for its architecture and importance in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Romanesque
- Mausoleum of Pope John Xxii
- Gilded Statue of the Virgin Mary Atop the Bell Tower
12th Century, 15th Century, 17th Century, 19th Century
About Avignon Cathedral
Avignon Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon, is a significant Roman Catholic church located in Avignon, France. Situated adjacent to the imposing Palais des Papes, it has historically served as the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon. The cathedral's origins trace back to the second half of the 12th century, when it was constructed as a Romanesque edifice.
History and Architecture
The structure has undergone several transformations throughout its history. The original bell tower collapsed in 1405 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1425. A more substantial alteration occurred between 1670 and 1672 when the apse was rebuilt and extended. This expansion, however, resulted in the unfortunate destruction of the medieval cloister that once stood beside it.
During the French Revolution, the cathedral was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was eventually reconsecrated in 1822, and a significant restoration was undertaken by Archbishop Célestin Dupont between 1835 and 1842.
A striking addition to the cathedral's profile is the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, which was placed atop the bell tower in 1859. The interior of Avignon Cathedral is home to various works of art, with the most renowned being the mausoleum of Pope John XXII. This 14th-century Gothic monument was moved in 1759, suffered damage during the Revolution, and was restored to its original location in 1840.
Recognition and Significance
Avignon Cathedral was officially listed as a Monument historique in 1840, acknowledging its historical and architectural importance. Its significance was further recognized in 1995 when, in conjunction with the Palais des Papes and other historic buildings in Avignon's city center, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation highlights the outstanding architecture of the cathedral and its pivotal role during the 14th and 15th centuries.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Avignon Cathedral?
Avignon Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon, is a Roman Catholic church in Avignon, France. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon and is situated next to the Palais des Papes.
When was Avignon Cathedral built?
The cathedral is primarily a Romanesque building constructed in the second half of the 12th century. Subsequent modifications and rebuilding occurred, including the bell tower in 1425 and the apse in 1670–1672.
What are the notable features of Avignon Cathedral?
A prominent feature is the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary atop the bell tower, erected in 1859. The interior houses significant artworks, most notably the mausoleum of Pope John XXII, a 14th-century Gothic structure.
Is Avignon Cathedral a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, in 1995, Avignon Cathedral, along with the Palais des Papes and other historic buildings in the city center, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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