Place Pie (Pie Square), Avignon

Pie Square (Place Pie) in Avignon carries a rich history marked by transformation and adaptation over centuries. Originally, the site was occupied by the house of Jean-Perrin Parpaille, a prominent figure in the Protestant movement during the 16th century. Parpaille, the son of a former University of Avignon official, was beheaded in 1562 for his heretical beliefs and actions. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his involvement in Protestantism earned the Huguenots the nickname "parpaillots."

Following Parpaille's execution, his house was demolished, and Pie Square was established in its place, named in honor of the reigning Pope. On January 30, 1563, Laurent Lenzi, the vice-legate, blessed the beginnings of a colonnade construction intended to shelter market gardeners, marking the square's initial purpose as a market area. From 1591 onwards, the square also served as a parade ground for pontifical troops.

By 1603, further development was aided by the donation of stone debris by Charles Conti, the vice-legate, which was used to expand the square. The colonnade was completed in 1624, featuring shops, a guardhouse, and a chapel. A convent dedicated to Notre-Dame du Refuge was briefly established in the square in 1634 before moving to a nearby street the following year.

In the mid-18th century, from 1760 to 1764, a new market was built based on the designs of Jean-Pierre Franque. However, this structure was later demolished during the Second Empire. A painting by Pierre Grivolas from 1868, now displayed at the Calvet Museum, depicts the vibrant open-air market that existed on Pie Square at that time.

Towards the end of the 19th century, the square underwent significant changes, including the demolition of the Commandery of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux, which had once served as a residence for the Cardinal of Florence. Between 1896 and 1898, the current Halles, or market halls, were constructed, solidifying Pie Square's ongoing role as a central market space in Avignon.