Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (Provençal: Vilanòva d’Avinhon) is a commune in the Gard department in southern France. It can also be spelled Villeneuve-lez-Avignon.

History
In the 6th century the Benedictine abbey of St André was founded on Mount Andaon, and the village which grew up round it took its name. The city itself was founded by Philippe le Bel and boasts a castle he built, Fort Saint-André.

The town was also the resort of the French cardinals during the sojourn of the popes at Avignon, in the 14th century.

Geography
It is located on the right (western) bank of the river Rhône, opposite Avignon.

Sights

 * Fort Saint-André, on a hill outside the town
 * Tour Philippe Le Bel, 14th century
 * The church of Notre Dame, dating from the 14th century, contains a rich marble altar and significant pictures.
 * Carthusian monastery Notre-Dame-du-Val-de-Bénédiction, founded in 1356 by Pope Innocent VI

International relations
Villeneuve-lès-Avignon is twinned with:
 * 🇩🇪 Rheinbach, Germany
 * Gytheio, Greece
 * 🇮🇹 San Miniato, Italy