Palace for a Pope, Avignon, France. Built in the 14th century, stepping into this square is like stepping back in time. How did this corner of France become the seat of Popes?

In 1305 Clement V, a frenchman, was elected Pope. This was a time of upheaval and corruption, and the people of Rome became increasingly unfriendly toward the church.

Clement V moved the papal court to Avignon, which became the undisputed capital of western christendom until 1378.