Cityscape from across the Rhone

Avignon

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October 5th 2009
5 October 2009 Besides the Pont, the interesting thing about Avignon is that the papacy was moved from a feuding Rome to here between 1309 and the Great Schism of the Catholic church of 1377 when two Popes were elected one here and one in Rome. This situation lasted until 1403. During this period the Popes built a huge palace for their use and a city wall, both of which are still complete. W ... read more

Europe » France

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Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader am... ... read more