Église Saint-Pierre
A stunning Provençal Gothic cathedral from 1358, famed for its intricate carved walnut doors and interior artworks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for interior viewing
Église Saint-Pierre
Best Time
Best light for interior viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Provençal Gothic cathedral from 1358, famed for its intricate carved walnut doors and interior artworks.
"Absolutely stunning gothic basilica with incredible carved wooden doors. Absolute must see."
🎯 Find the Side Entrance
Some visitors found the main entrance tricky; look for the side entrance to get inside.
✨ Appreciate the Doors
The carved walnut doors are a highlight, even if you can't go inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carved Walnut Doors
Marvel at the incredibly detailed wood carvings on the historic walnut doors, a testament to masterful craftsmanship.
Interior Artworks
Explore the various alcoves housing beautiful religious art and devotional pieces within the basilica.
Gothic Architecture
Admire the stunning Provençal Gothic architecture of this historic basilica, a significant landmark.
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Timing Your Visit to Église Saint-Pierre
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2 Weeks in Paris + Lyon + Avignon (1st trip to France)
🎯 Find the Side Entrance
Some visitors found the main entrance tricky; look for the side entrance to get inside.
✨ Appreciate the Doors
The carved walnut doors are a highlight, even if you can't go inside.
France trip Avignon attractions?
Visiting around Avignon?
🔦 Be Prepared for Dimness
The interior can be quite dark, so be ready to adjust your eyes.
Is it worth visiting Avignon and Nice?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Side Entrance
Some visitors found the main entrance tricky; look for the side entrance to get inside.
✨ Appreciate the Doors
The carved walnut doors are a highlight, even if you can't go inside.
🔦 Be Prepared for Dimness
The interior can be quite dark, so be ready to adjust your eyes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Église Saint-Pierre for its stunning Gothic architecture and particularly its magnificent carved walnut doors. While the interior is noted for its beauty and religious art, some find it quite dark. Finding the side entrance is a helpful tip for a smoother visit.
"Absolutely stunning gothic basilica with incredible carved wooden doors. Building begun in 1358 and Pope Innocent VI erected it as a collegiate church.
Absolute must see."
Mike Zito
"What a stunning church on the outside this is , unfortunately on our visit we didn’t get to look around on the inside which is a real shame . I was blown away the doors to the church the wood carvings were just Fantastic, it’s great that we can still see these beautiful buildings . Avignon is a great place to visit you won’t be disappointed."
Mick K
"Took us a while to find the entrance at the side. Once you're inside, you'll see it's beauty. It's very dark as well."
arChy
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Église Saint-Pierre is centrally located in Avignon, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already in the city center. If arriving by public transport, look for bus routes that stop near the Place de l'Horloge or the Palais des Papes, from where it's a short walk.
Parking in Avignon's city center can be challenging. There are several public parking garages available, such as Parking des Halles or Parking Palais des Papes, which are within walking distance of the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Église Saint-Pierre is generally free, as it is a functioning church. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special event closures or potential small entry fees for specific areas or exhibitions.
Opening hours can vary, especially outside of peak tourist season or due to religious services. It's recommended to check local listings or inquire nearby for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
You can typically visit Église Saint-Pierre during mass, but it's important to be respectful of the ongoing service. Some areas might be less accessible during this time.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Inside Église Saint-Pierre, visitors can admire the beautiful Gothic architecture, various religious artworks displayed in alcoves, and the relics of Pierre de Luxembourg. The intricately carved walnut doors are also a significant feature.
While photography is often permitted, it's essential to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. The interior can be quite dark, which might pose a challenge for low-light photography.
A visit to Église Saint-Pierre can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the art and architecture. If you plan to explore the surrounding area of Avignon, you can easily combine it with other nearby attractions.
Access can be a concern as it's an old building. While the main areas might be accessible, some parts could have steps or uneven flooring. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility before your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Église Saint-Pierre is located in the heart of Avignon, surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and brasseries offering a variety of Provençal and French cuisine. You'll find options for every budget and taste.
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Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the church is an active place of worship, so maintaining a quiet demeanor is important. The central location means it can easily be incorporated into a day of exploring Avignon's more interactive attractions, providing a moment of historical context and architectural appreciation.
🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the relics of Pierre de Luxembourg, which add a layer of historical and religious significance. The basilica's role as a collegiate church under Pope Innocent VI further underscores its importance in the region's past. Allow ample time to absorb the details and imagine the centuries of history that have unfolded within its walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Église Saint-Pierre
One of the most frequently praised features is the magnificent carved walnut doors. These doors are not just functional entrances but are considered works of art in themselves, showcasing detailed wood carvings that have withstood the test of time. Inside, the basilica offers a more subdued atmosphere, often described as dark, which can enhance the spiritual ambiance and draw attention to the various interior artworks and devotional alcoves.
While the church is a place of worship, its historical and artistic value makes it a significant attraction for tourists exploring Avignon. The presence of the relics of Pierre de Luxembourg further adds to its religious importance. For those interested in history, art, and architecture, Église Saint-Pierre provides a compelling glimpse into medieval and Renaissance Avignon.
Experiencing Église Saint-Pierre: Tips from Visitors
Inside, the basilica is noted for being quite dark. While this can create a unique atmosphere, it's something to be aware of, especially if you're planning to take photos. Some visitors have mentioned difficulty finding the entrance, with one tip suggesting to look for the side entrance as the main one might not be immediately obvious.
Despite the potential for dimness, the beauty of the basilica and its central location in Avignon make it a worthwhile visit for many. It's a place that offers a quiet moment of reflection and an appreciation for historical artistry amidst the bustling city.
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