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Avignon is often called the “Vatican of France,” as the popes in the 14th century moved their leadership here to escape the corruption of Rome. Papal influence shaped the city’s landscape and is evident at every turn. Avignon’s landmark destination is Le Pailais de Papes, the Pope’s Palace, which is a Gothic building with spires that spike into the skyline. It was build as more of a defensive fortress, to keep out the plague and the disgruntled than more of a religious building, but is impressive either way. Children sing about Avignon’s other tourist attraction, the Pont d’Avignon. The Rhône River has flooded and degraded the bridge over time, but a few arches remain for visitors to see.