The gilded Virgin Mary statue atop the tower weighs 4.5 tons and was installed in 1859.
The cathedral's bell tower is a distinct 14th-century construction that replaced an earlier, less stable version.
It contains the funeral monument of Pope John XXII, a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture from the 14th century.
The interior features a collection of 18th-century paintings and religious relics rescued from the French Revolution.
The cathedral grounds offer a high-vantage view over the Rhône river and the ruins of the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet.
The cathedral serves as the metropolitan church for the ecclesiastical province of Avignon.
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon is a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral located atop the Rocher des Doms. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon and is classified as a Monument Historique. The structure is immediately recognizable by the massive 19th-century gilded lead statue of the Virgin Mary perched atop its bell tower. The interior houses the mausoleums of several popes, including John XXII and Benedict XII, who resided in Avignon during the 14th century. The building reflects multiple layers of architectural history, having undergone significant structural modifications during the 14th and 17th centuries. It stands directly adjacent to the Palais des Papes, forming the historic heart of the city's ecclesiastical precinct. The site remains an active place of worship with ongoing religious functions.
From the Rocher des Doms park terrace, providing an angle that captures the cathedral tower alongside the Palais des Papes.
Walk through the adjacent Rocher des Doms gardens for a better view of the cathedral exterior.
Maintain a quiet demeanor as the cathedral is an active site of religious services.
Visit during a choral performance to experience the acoustics of the Romanesque nave.
Do not attempt to climb the bell tower, as it is closed to the public; ignore vendors selling cheap souvenirs in the immediate square.
Occasionally closed for private religious ceremonies or special archdiocesan events.
Shoulders and knees should be covered; maintain a low voice and avoid photography during active services.
