Eglise Saint Didier (St. Didier Church), Avignon

The Saint Didier Church in Avignon is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture from the mid-14th century. Designated as a historic monument on July 27, 1983, this former collegiate church is situated in the heart of the city, on the site of an earlier church traditionally believed to have been founded in the 7th century by Agricol d'Avignon. The earliest recorded mention of the church dates back to 1008, in a document where Bishop Rostaing of Avignon donated Saint-Didier and its surrounding land to the Abbey of Montmajour.

The construction of the church was influenced by the Avignon papacy and initiated by Cardinal Bertrand de Deaux, whose will directed the building of a church on his estate. Led by master mason Jaume Alasaud, known for his work on the Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), the church was completed in just over three years and consecrated on September 20, 1359. Saint Didier stands today as a prime example of Avignon Gothic architecture.

The church houses significant artworks, including two paintings by Simon de Châlons: "The Flagellation" and "The Descent of the Holy Spirit." It also features a Renaissance bas-relief, "The Carrying of the Cross," commissioned in 1478 by King René and crafted by Francesco Laurana. Originally intended for the high altar of the Church of the Celestines in Avignon, this work now adorns the first right chapel of Saint Didier and is considered one of the earliest examples of Renaissance art in France.