Visite atelier : « Construire la ville, construire un pont »

Guided Tour
1. Palace Square
An overview of urban life, trades, traffic patterns and political issues in the 14th century.
2. Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral
Discovering the religious heart of the city. Evoking the links between spiritual and papal power, and the evolution of the canonical quarter.
3. Rocher des Doms
Landscape interpretation from the viewpoint: location of the Rhône, observation of the old communication routes and the bridge's path. Putting the strategic choice of the Saint Bénezet Bridge's location into perspective.
4. The ramparts
Analysis of medieval fortifications: their defensive role, their evolution, and how they shaped urban expansion. Discussion on city protection and access control.
5. Avignon Bridge (Saint Bénezet Bridge)
The legend of Bénezet is recounted, medieval construction techniques are presented, along with the difficulties posed by the Rhône River, and the reasons for the bridge's gradual ruin. The remaining arches and chapels are observed.

Workshop: "Build your own bridge!"
Workshop content
• Introduction to the basic principles of bridge architecture: arches, piers, forces, materials.
• Manipulation.
• Collective challenge: to build a stable bridge capable of supporting a weight.
• Linking with the medieval techniques observed during the visit.
Educational goals
• Understand the technical constraints of a medieval construction site.
• To experience cooperation and problem-solving.
• Develop creativity and fine motor skills.
• To give families an immersive and fun experience.

Duration: about 2 hours.
The workshop visit is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

IH: the Palais des Papes is not accessible to people with reduced mobility due to a large number of steps.

€20 for one adult and one child, €10 extra for an additional child.
This price includes entrance to the Palace, the tour and the workshop.