Palais des Papes

The Palais de Papes (Pope's Palace) in Avignon served as the Pope's residence and the center of the Catholic Church during the 14th century.  In addition to its historical significance, it is also an incredible example of Gothic Architecture.  And, best of all, you can visit.

Inside is a museum, but I really like the fact that the palace serves as a cultural center for the city.  Art exhibitions are routinely shown here and every July the Festival d'Avignon is held in the courtyard.

We were in Avignon in the fall, when the weather is glorious, by the way, and saw Les Luminessences, an amazing show of light and sound.  Projectors positioned around the courtyard and a full 360 degrees of film surrounds the courtyard.  The enormity of the production cannot be overstated.  The palace itself is the largest Gothic palace in the world and the courtyard is massive.  The walls where the film is projected must be sixty feet tall at least!

I've reluctantly posted a couple videos of the show above.  I say reluctantly for two reasons.  First, the vid is from my cell phone so the quality is not the best, not to mention it was done at night.  And second, I don't really feel that a video can capture the magnitude of the full experience of Les Luminessences.  But, at least you'll get an idea.

Finally, the night we went, Sept. 30th, was the last performance of Les Luminessences.  But, I have heard that other 360 degree films will be shown at the palace and, perhaps, they will bring back Les Luminessences sometime in the future.

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