Avignon in late antiquity: Burgundians, Goths and Franks

History of Avignon Prehistory Before Rome Gallo-Roman Avignon Late antiquity Early Middle Ages The medieval commune The papal move The papal court Western Schism Legates Wars of Religion Altera Roma Eighteenth century Union with France Napoleon Nineteenth century Twentieth century Early twenty-first century

During the fifth and sixth centuries, Avignon changed rulers several times. Its fortifications and the position of the Rocher des Doms remained central to its history.

The kingdoms of late antiquity

The Roman Empire’s crises and the conflicts of late antiquity transformed Provence. During the fifth century, Burgundians and Visigoths extended their influence along the Rhône and through southern Gaul. Avignon belonged to the Burgundian kingdom before coming within the orbit of Gothic powers.

Frankish warrior, illustration

A fortified town around the Rocher

The town contracted around the Rocher des Doms and strengthened its defences. Ancient building materials were reused. This reorganisation did not mean the disappearance of urban life: Avignon retained political and religious importance.

From Clovis to the Frankish kingdom

In 500, the Burgundian king Gundobad took refuge in Avignon from Clovis. The siege, described by Gregory of Tours, testifies to the strength of the town’s defences. In the early sixth century, the Ostrogoths gained control of Provence before ceding it to the Franks in 536–537.

History of Avignon Prehistory Before Rome Gallo-Roman Avignon Late antiquity Early Middle Ages The medieval commune The papal move The papal court Western Schism Legates Wars of Religion Altera Roma Eighteenth century Union with France Napoleon Nineteenth century Twentieth century Early twenty-first century