Notre-Dame-la-Principale church in Avignon

Notre-Dame-la-Principale is a former church in the historic core of Avignon, also known as the Chapel of the White Penitents. Standing on Place de la Principale, just steps from Place de l'Horloge, it ranks among the oldest religious sites in the city — its origins trace back to the 11th century, though the building seen today largely dates from a 16th-century rebuild.

How do you get there?

The church stands at 13 Rue de la Principale, inside Avignon's medieval ramparts, within easy walking distance of the Palace of the Popes and Notre-Dame-des-Doms cathedral. The simplest route is on foot from Place de l'Horloge — just a few minutes through the narrow lanes of the old town. This part of Avignon is densely built, so it's best to park near the ramparts and cover the rest on foot.

What will you see inside?

The medieval building originally had a main nave with Romanesque side chapels that were later converted into aisles. In the 16th century, the current nave and aisles were built, covered by pointed Gothic vaults that still define the interior today. Around 1758, architect J.B. Péru added a domed chapel — a feature that visibly sets the structure apart from the surrounding townhouses. The building is listed as a French historic monument (monument historique), confirming its architectural significance.

The story of the White Penitents

The nickname "Chapel of the White Penitents" comes from a lay confraternity dedicated to the Five Wounds of Christ, founded in 1527 by thirteen prominent citizens of Avignon. The confraternity only moved into this particular building during the Restoration period, in the early 19th century, and stayed until 1948, when it was dissolved. What distinguished the White Penitents of Avignon was a very concrete social mission: they assisted prisoners and the condemned, and cared for people committed to institutions for the mentally ill. That charitable work, more than devotion alone, sustained the brotherhood's standing in the city for over a century.

When should you visit?

Today the former church also has a cultural life: as the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs, it serves as a performance venue during the renowned Festival d'Avignon, held every July. That's a good moment to see the interior "in use," alongside one of the world's biggest theatre festivals. Outside festival season, the building is worth folding into a walk through the old town together with the nearby Palace of the Popes — spring or early autumn offers a quieter setting to appreciate the intimate scale of the place without the crowds.

Frequently asked questions

What was Notre-Dame-la-Principale originally? It was a parish church first mentioned in the 11th century; its current architectural form dates from a 16th-century rebuild.

Why is the building also called the Chapel of the White Penitents? From the early 19th century until 1948, it housed the White Penitents confraternity, which assisted prisoners, the condemned, and the mentally ill.

Can you visit the interior? The building is sometimes open during cultural events, including the Festival d'Avignon — check the current schedule before you go.

Is the church a protected monument? Yes, it's listed as a French monument historique, confirming its architectural and historical value.