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Fort St Andre & Abbaye St Andre, Villeneuve les Avignon

Ancient castle overlooking the city of Avignon

featured in Sights & sites

The 14th century Fort St Andre was built by order of the King of France, Philippe le Bel as a mean to keep an eye on the papal city of Avignon. Perched on a hill, this impressive structure contains the ruins of the Abbaye St Andre.

There are beautiful gardens inside the Abbey with terraces, rosebeds and a pergola. The views of the Rhone Valley and Avignon are spectacular. The Fort is open to the public throughout the year for a small fee.

Visitor comments

  • "Went to the gardens and Abbeye first and was at one stage not going to bother with the fort ..glad I changed my mind ....it was very interesting historically and even though the Mistral was blowing the views were great looking back to Avignon and around the surrounding area" - Trip Advisor
  • "Very old and some of the ruins have been restored while maintaining the original style. Definitely wear walking shoes, your feet will thank you." - Trip Advisor
  • "A large 12th century fortress overlooking the small town of Villeneuve les Avignon. Lots of steps and uneven ground, would not recommend it to visitors who had difficulty walking. The fortress had great strategic significance in the middle ages as it overlooked the whole region" - Trip Advisor

When to come

Opening dates & times:

  • May, June, July, August & September from 10:00 - 18:00 non stop
  • March & October from 10:00 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 17:00
  • April from 10:00 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 18:00
  • Open on public holidays except when they fall on Mondays

How to get passes

Prices:

  • Visit to the gardens only - 6 euros per adult
  • Guided visit the Abbey (in French or English) exhibits and the gardens - 13 euros per adult
  • Reduced fees are available for families, groups over 10, disabled visitors and students

Location

Map of the surrounding area