Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Villeneuve-lÃÂ¨s-Avignon (; ProvenÃÂ§al: VilanÃÂ²va dÃ¢ÂÂAvinhon) is a commune in the Gard department in southern France. It can also be spelled Villeneuve-lez-Avignon.

History

In the 6th century the Benedictine abbey of St AndrÃÂ© was founded on Mount Andaon, and the village which grew up round it took its name. The city itself was founded by Philippe le Bel and boasts a castle he built, Fort Saint-AndrÃÂ©.

The town was also the resort of the French cardinals during the sojourn of the popes at Avignon, in the 14th century. Another notable tourist attraction is the Tour Philippe-le-Bel, which marks the former northern terminus of the Pont d'Avignon.

Geography

It is located on the right (western) bank of the river RhÃÂ´ne, opposite Avignon.

Population

Sights

Fort Saint-AndrÃÂ©, on a hill outside the town
Tour Philippe Le Bel, 14th century
The church of Notre Dame, dating from the 14th century, contains a rich marble altar and significant pictures.
Carthusian monastery Notre-Dame-du-Val-de-BÃÂ©nÃÂ©diction, founded in 1356 by Pope Innocent VI

International relations

Villeneuve-lÃÂ¨s-Avignon is twinned with:

Gallery

References

External links