France Avignon Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Church

Musée du Théâtre et des Spectacles

About

The Church of the Célestins, once one of Avignon’s most distinguished religious monuments, reflects the city’s deep spiritual and artistic heritage. Founded in the 14th century by the Célestine order, it stood as a symbol of papal influence during the Avignon papacy. Its architecture combined Gothic elegance with monastic simplicity, while its chapels and altars housed remarkable works of art. Over the centuries, the church became a center of devotion and learning, closely tied to the city’s cultural life. Though much of the original structure has been altered or lost, the memory of the Célestins endures as part of Avignon’s historic fabric, reminding visitors of the city’s role as a crossroads of faith and power. Today, the site is remembered not only for its religious significance but also for its contribution to the artistic and intellectual vitality of medieval Provence.

Avignon France

Location

Church of the Célestins is located at Place des Corps Saints in the heart of Avignon's historic intramuros district, a well-preserved 14th-century Gothic church and former Celestine convent founded by Antipope Clement VII, now serving as an exhibition space and historic monument within the pedestrian old town. Situated south of the Palais des Papes amid quiet medieval squares, it lies a 10-minute walk from Avignon Centre train station, accessible via charming lanes near the city walls. Nearby landmarks enhance its serene appeal. The imposing Palais des Papes towers just north on Place du Palais, alongside Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms and Musée du Petit Palais, while Place des Châtaignes and Basilique Saint-Pierre add to the spiritual cluster nearby. Lively Place de l'Horloge with cafés and theaters connects eastward via Rue de la République to the Musée Lapidaire, weaving into Avignon's UNESCO-listed core rich in cloisters and cultural venues.