A gothic masterpiece.The Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace) is one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in the world, and since 1995 has been classed a UNESCO world heritage monument. The huge and imposing building symbolises the might of the Christian church during the fourteenth century, during which time the Papal residence was located in Avignon. Built in 1335 over a period of less than 20 years, the Palais des Papes was in fact built under two Popes, Pope Benedict XII and his successor, Pope Clement VI.The building comprises around twenty different venues for different papal events to take place in, including theatres and the fabulously decorated papal apartments with their frescos by the Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti. This is a fascinating building steeped in history and intrigue: not to be missed.