The Tour Philippe-le-Bel, the majestic keep of a fortress erected in the 13th century by the King of France, stands proudly at the entrance to the famous Pont d'Avignon, which it guarded closely to control access. From the top of its ramparts, it offers a breathtaking view over the whole of Provence, dominating Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, Avignon and the Rhône valley.
Inside, visitors are greeted by magnificent vaulted rooms that bear witness to the architectural refinement of medieval times. A permanent museographic space, called "Mémoires de tour", invites visitors on a journey through the fascinating history of the region.
The exhibition covers a range of themes, including the emblematic figure of King Philip the Fair, the evolution of Avignon's territory along the Rhône from Carolingian times to the French Revolution, the construction and history of the famous Pont d'Avignon, and a 3D reconstruction of this legendary bridge at different times, in its surrounding landscape.
This captivating tour is offered from an international perspective, with information available in both French and English, providing an enriching experience for all visitors, whether French or English-speaking.
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Here are some little-known facts and legends associated with the Tour Philippe-le-Bel:
A stratagem of war: During the Hundred Years' War, the Tour Philippe-le-Bel was the scene of ingenious military stratagems. According to local legends, secret passages and hiding places were created in the depths of the tower to enable discreet troop movements and surprise actions against attackers.
The hidden treasure: Persistent rumors suggest that buried treasure may lie beneath the foundations of the Tour Philippe-le-Bel. Some claim that riches abandoned by medieval lords or precious objects stolen during times of conflict could yet be discovered by those who dare to explore the tower's mysteries.
Nocturnal apparitions: Witnesses claim to have observed strange phenomena and nocturnal apparitions around the Tour Philippe-le-Bel. Mysterious lights, strange noises and even ghostly figures have been reported by some visitors, fuelling rumours of hauntings and supernatural presences in the Tower's vicinity.
The legends of the Pont d'Avignon: Situated at the entrance to the famous Pont d'Avignon, the Tour Philippe-le-Bel is often associated with the many legends and mysterious stories surrounding this iconic monument. Some say that lost lovers find themselves on the banks of the Rhône, seeking to lift the veil on the secrets buried beneath the river's tumultuous waters.
The secrets of the vaulted rooms: Although the vaulted rooms of the Tour Philippe-le-Bel are magnificent, they could also harbor some well-kept secrets. Some speculate that historical documents or ancient artifacts could be hidden in secret passages or unexplored hiding places in the tower, waiting to be discovered by intrepid archaeologists or curious adventurers.
