Avignon: Fortified Wall

Detail of the fortified wall of Avignon, depicting crenellation and corbelling; Avignon is an ancient city situated on a cliff, the Rocher-des-Doms, on the east bank of the River Rhône overlooking the delta. It was the seat of the papacy from 1309 to 1378. In 1348 Clement VI purchased the city from Queen Joanna of Naples (reigned 1343-1382). Innocent VI (reigned 1352-1362) rebuilt the city walls and erected many churches, convents and residences. Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.oxfordartonline.com/ (accessed 7/16/2010