A Legacy in Avignon

Nov 19, 2019 | Blog

On our recent Rhone Cruise, we were able to explore the Jewish history of Provence, France with Dr. Henry Abramson.

The city of Avignon stands along the Rhone, a bastion of antiquity in the Provence region of France. The remnants of its Pont d’Avignon protruding over the waters of the river, while the intact structure of the Papal Palace rises over the city walls. Nested within this city’s modernized streets, a reminder of Jewish heritage remains. Guided by Dr. Henry Abramson, Dean of Touro College and Kosher River Cruises’ scholar in residence, we explored the Place Jerusalem of Avignon, and the synagogue within.

Avignon was once the home of the popes, an enclave of Papal power in the south of France, far away from Rome. In a time when the Jews of the region were persecuted, Avignon became a place of refuge, with Place Jerusalem, the Jewish carriere or quarter, serving as their home.

The Avignon Papacy lasted from 1309 to 1377, before the pope’s seat of power was moved back to Rome, but the legacy of Avignon’s Jewish population remains.

Related Articles

BEYOND our expectations

We could not believe what we were served. Chef Malcom is a GENIUS!!! Please tell the directors that we do not have words to express how pleased we were. I suppose that we will be recommending you to every friend we know.

Jose T, Miami FL

Rhone River Cruise 2019

Fabulous & flawless service

I have been totally spoiled for future vacations. Riverboat is the way to go. I’ve met such nice people, staff was great, food fantastic. A really well run and well thought out trip

Harriet S

Another successful experience

Our experience was unique in that we were able to tour a lot of territory and a variety of places with minimal inconvenience. The fact that our boat was always with us and there were no long bus rides or waits made this mode of travel extremely enjoyable.

Micheol R