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living next door to the pope |
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From Gatwick, we flew to Marseilles and then drove to Avignon. Normally, we stay at the Hotel d’Europe, but this time we checked into the awe-inspiring La-Mirande, just across from the Popes’ Palace. (If, like Larry, you wonder why the Pope had a palace in Avignon, here’s a brief history lesson: In the 14th century, the king of France split with the Vatican and installed his own Pope in Avignon. The residence, which is the largest Gothic palace in Europe, housed the French Popes for nearly seventy years and remains one of the most-visited spots in all of France.) La Mirande, which was once used to receive the Pope’s guests and was also the cardinal’s residence, is now a first-class hotel with an amazing restaurant. You feel as though you’re living in 18th century grandeur. Except for all that beheading. |
A Pope hasn’t
lived in the palace for 600 years. How often do you think they change
the sheets? |
Larry guards the streets to the palace. |
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