Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Sacred surroundings of serenity

Stop 9: Avignon (City of Popes and Roman Renaissance)

With the car all packed, without an inch to spare in the trunk or back seat, we set out on the road toward Lyon. But a road trip is not complete without one last day trip, and so we strolled through the Roman inspired village of Avignon. A major city of Provence known as the city of Popes, with an ancient Roman presence and influence, and the Palais des Papes, home to Popes of the fourteenth century. The city is filled with gothic and medieval style palaces, churches and buildings, yet the modernism of outdoor terrace squares, restaurants and shops fit seamlessly and blend beautifully into the historical aura of the city.


 




In perfect road trip fashion, we embarked on our final trolley train tour of the city, and took in the unique history and stories encompassing this revered city of France. A walk through the streets, stopping at artists stands as they created new works undoubtedly inspired by the magnificence of the grounds; and a relaxed drink across from the Palais des Papes completed our tour of Avignon. And so this was our final southern Provençal destination, before heading off to my new hometown of Lyon...





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