Notre-Dame-des-Doms

Notre-Dame-des-Doms is a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral located on Place du Palais, situated directly next to the Palace of the Popes. Serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon, the building underwent significant architectural modifications throughout the 14th, 15th, and 17th centuries.

This cathedral is historically significant as the primary spiritual center of Avignon, predating the arrival of the papacy by centuries. It remained a site of immense religious importance during the papal era, and today it houses the ornate 1334 Gothic mausoleum of Pope John XXII.

Approaching the cathedral, visitors are struck by the contrast between its relatively austere Romanesque stone facade and the massive, fortress-like Palace next door. Inside, the space is quiet and atmospheric, featuring a mix of architectural styles, historic tombs, and intricate side chapels.

You cannot miss the defining feature of the cathedral's exterior: a massive, gleaming statue perched at the very top of the western tower. Added in the 19th century, this gilded lead statue of the Virgin Mary stands 6 meters tall and weighs an astonishing 4,500 kilograms.