Today Donna and Wayne, Peter, Julie her friend Helen, and I set out for a visit to Avignon. It looks a bit overcast but brightens up as we drive the short trip to our destination.
As we cross the Rhone we view a vibrant modern city that stretches from the walls of the old town, along the banks of the river. Behind the walls is a backdrop of jutting towers. Present day Avignon, with a population of just fewer than 100,000 is a large industrial and commercial centre. It is also a major tourist area with much to see and do.
One of the oldest towns in Europe, Avignon dates back to 3,000 BC. One thousand years later and several centuries before the Romans arrived, there was a Celtic-Ligurian settlement here, called Cavares. It was a river port, where the Greeks, who had earlier inhabited the. settlement, also established a trading post.
Avignon gets its name from the Roman word Avenio, which translates to"town on the river." Another translation is " town with violent winds"
With a population that numbered more than 27,000 and it's central, river location, Avignon became a major Roman town. Its reign lasted till almost the 5th century. The Lapidaire Museum has some artifacts from this era.
After a history of many Barbarian invasions and occupations, in the 12th century the city became independent. During this period it became a very prosperous trade centre. With this prosperity came development. The bridge across the Rhone and the Cathedral were built. Double walls around the town were also erected.
In 1226 Avignon lost it's independence when it was taken over by King Louis V111. His reign was a period of decadence. This was also the time of hospitaliers and templar knights. During this time a university, convents and the cathedral were added.
We continue towards the old town and enter through one of seven gates. The awesome walls are massive and in excellent condition. They encircle the ancient city in a protective embrace. As I pass through this portal into the inner labyrinth, I think of the millions of others who have also passed this way before me.
It is very crowded with tourists. We are very lucky to find parking places near the Place de l'Horloge where we enter the main square. Festive but Tinny music reaches our ears as we get out of the car. We soon find the source and are charmed by the brightly colored two-tiered carousel we encounter. The carousel does its circle dance, egged on by delighted children as they choose their horses.
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Mary Ellen Bradshaw's Virtual Journeys topic, please visit the Discussions page.