Jardins de l'abbaye Saint-André
58 montée du Fort, 30400 Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
At the heart of the enclosure of Fort Saint-André, which dominates the town, the Benedictine and Royal Abbey of Saint-André opens to visitors its sumptuous terraced gardens and its abbey palace. Nestled on the heights of Mount Andaon, these balcony gardens offer panoramic views of the Popes' Palace of Avignon. They extend between the remains of the Romanesque churches and the tombs of the 6th century, sheltering Mediterranean plants, olive trees and ancient pines. At the foot of the palace, a 16th-century Tuscan-style parterre decorated with basins, vases and sculptures runs along a pergola covered with wisteria and roses.
In the sumptuous vaulted rooms, redesigned in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries by Pierre Mignard, architect of the king, reveals an exceptional succession of ceilings made by François Franque. There are also murals by Émile Bernard, collections and permanent exhibitions. The site is open from March to October.
Tags
Jardin remarquable, Monument historique, Édifice religieux, Château, hôtel urbain, palais, manoir, Lieu de culture, spectacles, sports et loisirs, Site archéologique, Espace naturel, parc, jardin
Access
From Nîmes, A 9 exit 23, then N 100 towards Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, rue Montée du Fort. Parking.
©DR
