Clos des Arts

The Clos des Arts, former house of the General Almonry of Avignon

The Clos des Arts is an imposing building of Avignon, whose history goes back to the sixteenth century. The Avignon audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this building, a former house of charity become a barracks, a witness of the social history of the city.

From a house of charity to a barracks

The history of the Clos des Arts begins in 1541, when it is built as the house of the General Almonry. This charitable establishment was intended to welcome the needy of the city, who received there material and spiritual support. In 1845, the building was bought by the city and transformed into a military barracks. Its history illustrates the evolution of the social and urban functions of Avignon over the centuries.

What to see

Here you observe the imposing building of the Clos des Arts, a witness of the social and military history of Avignon, from the house of charity to the barracks. Its façade and its scale make it a landmark of the centre. It is a stop for those curious about history, during a walk in the city.

Practical information

The Clos des Arts lies in the heart of Avignon, reachable on foot. The façade can be freely admired from the street; access inside depends on its current uses. It is mainly discovered from the outside, during a walk in the historic centre.

What is the history of the Clos des Arts of Avignon?

Built in 1541 as the house of the General Almonry, a charitable establishment, it was bought by the city in 1845 and transformed into a military barracks.

Where is the Clos des Arts?

In the heart of the historic centre of Avignon.