Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France, woodcut, published 1883 - Bildbanksillustration

Historical view of the Palais des Papes (English: Palace of the Popes) in Avignon, Southern France - one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Once a fortress and palace, the papal residence was a seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century. Six papal conclaves were held in the Palais. In 1995, the Palais des Papes was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding architecture and historical importance for the papacy. Wood engraving, published in 1883.