Confronted with factional strife in Rome and encouraged by the scheming of Philippe IV of France, Pope Clement V moved the papal court to Avignon in 1309 where it remained till 1377. Its heavy fortification was vital to defend against rogue bands of mercenaries.
Seven "official" popes reigned in Avignon until 1376. They were followed by two "anti-popes", the last of whom, Benedict XIII, fled in 1403. Popes or anti-popes, few were known for their sanctity. Clement V died eating powdered emeralds, prescribed as an indigestion cure; Clement VI thought that the best way to honour God was through luxury. Petrarch was shocked by "the filth of the universe" at court. In 1367, Urban V tried to return the Curia (papal court) to Rome, a move that became permanent in 1377.
Can you see Richard waving from the far window? (Above)
Be thee Catholic or Protestant?
Karl and I on the Pont d'Avignon.
"Sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse, on y danse
Be thee Catholic or Protestant?
Karl and I on the Pont d'Avignon.
"Sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse, on y danse
Sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse tous en rond."
We stopped for a huge beer and some great eats and were surprised by a jazz concert taking place in the restaurant's inner courtyard. Karl was surprised by how much weight he had gained! (You really need to zoom in on the photo above!)
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