Cathedral of Our Lady of the Doms of Avignon

The gilded Mother of God on the Basilica of Notre Dame des Doms - a must when visiting Avignon - draws everyone's attention in the blazing summer sun. The church dates from 1150, the side chapels were added in the 14th and 17th centuries. It is enthroned on the Rocher des Doms high above the city and can be seen from the Rhône banks from Villeneuve as well as from the top of the Les Alpilles mountain range. The portico is decorated with frescoes by the Italian painter Simone Martini, they were completed in 1343.
Admission free - (please do not disturb during the services).

Cathedral above the Pope's Palace with the gilded statue of Mary on top of the top.

The cathedral is located above the Papal Palace on a rocky outcrop, but looks rather inconspicuous next to the palace. Visiting possible, is also a museum