Notre Dame des Doms (Avignon Cathedral), Avignon

Nestling with the Palace of the Popes on the Palace Square is the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon, Avignon Cathedral, or the Cathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms. Even next to the Palace, the most imposing Gothic building in europe, the great church holds its own.

After being closed for refurbishing for two years, the Cathedral, locally known as La Metropole, reopened in 2016. It has been a rebirth. The once dark, grimy interior is clean and filled with light. Sculptures, paintings and other treasures are now in plain view.

It is believed the Cathedral is not the first church to occupy this spot. It is thought a basilica preceded it only to be destroyed by Saracen raiders in 731.

Cathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms was built and consecrated in 1111. There are different theories about the origin of the name of the church. It might be derived from domus episcopal, meaning "Bishop's house", or Rocher des Doms after the enormous rock that rears above the cathedral.

The style might be an architectural stew of mostly provencal Romanesque, mixed with Greek, Roman, Gothic and Baroque elements. Some inner chapels were added in the 14th century, during the time of John XXII, second Pope of Avignon. The donated bells are a 35-strong carillon.

The cathedral has a great octagonal dome, and a marble papal throne from the 12th century. In the chapel of John XXII, there is collection of reliquaries and vestments.

Service are held each morning.