Known as the City of Popes, the walled city of Avignon was home to seven popes throughout the 14th century, who protected their papal territory by building immense fortifications. The city charms visitors with its ancient streets, restored medieval ramparts and the immense, Gothic architecture of the Palais des Papes (Palace of Popes). Its annual festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to enjoy theater, dance, cinema and street performances.