Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf -du -Pape is a place in southern France and a wine-growing region of the southern Rhone Valley. The municipality has 2159 inhabitants (as of 1 January 2011) and is located in the department of Vaucluse between the cities of Avignon and Orange. Two kilometers from the Rhône, Châteauneuf -du -Pape is located at 120 meters above sea level. Its landmark is the ruins of the palace of the Popes of Avignon. Since September 1995, is a partnership with today's papal summer residence of Castel Gandolfo. Since 3 June 1977, is a partnership with the German community Auggen.

History

The town was first mentioned in 1094 as castro novo. In 1157 Frederick Barbarossa confirmed the 908 was donated by the neighboring town Bedarrides and its surroundings to the bishop of Avignon. In 1213 the place was known as Châteauneuf Calcernier. This name refers to the significant production of lime and remained until 1893, the official name. A big boost Châteauneuf learned by the popes of Avignon. John XXII. , Previously bishop of Avignon, began no later than 1318 with the construction work at his summer residence in Châteauneuf, which were only completed in 1333. The papal palace was destroyed in the religious wars of the 16th century. The archbishops of Avignon left their residence repeatedly restored, but lost in the 18th century, interest in her and leased their property to the Irish Baron Jean de Power. The Châteauneuf came only in 1791 with France, until then, he belonged to the independent territory of the bishops and archbishops of Avignon.

Climate

The climate is hot and dry. On an annual average, there are 2800 sunshine hours, and an average of 620 mm of precipitation falls. At 130 days of the year the Mistral blows.