Early medieval Avignon: bishops, Franks and counts

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

After antiquity, Avignon remained a Rhône Valley town where religious and political authorities intersected. Its history combined Roman legacies, Frankish rule and the emergence of local powers.

Roman legacies and the Frankish kingdom

Within the Frankish kingdom, dynastic divisions and rivalries altered regional balances. Avignon retained traditions inherited from the Roman world and remained one of Provence’s important towns alongside Arles and Marseille.

Early Christian glass, Musée Lapidaire, Avignon © Vincent Flachaire Christianity had taken root in Provence during antiquity, before the Western Empire disappeared. Bishops played an increasing role in civic administration. The Church helped transmit Roman practices, learning and legal frameworks.

Early Christian glass, Musée Lapidaire, Avignon © Vincent Flachaire

Charles Martel’s campaigns

Illustration of a medieval siege During the 730s, alliances between local rulers and Muslim forces established in Septimania complicated the situation. Charles Martel intervened to impose his authority. The capture of Avignon in 737 and the campaigns of 739 brought fighting and destruction.

Illustration of a medieval siege

The restoration of Frankish authority transformed regional power. The following centuries brought varied conditions: conflict and epidemics did not prevent all continuity of activity and institutions.

From Burgundy to the Holy Roman Empire

In the tenth century, Provence belonged to the kingdom of Burgundy. This kingdom came under the Holy Roman Empire’s sovereignty in 1032. Imperial authority remained distant, while counts, bishops and noble families played an increasing role.