Louis Vuitton announces that its Cruise 2026 show will be held on May 22 at one of France’s most iconic monuments, the Palais des Papes in Avignon, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. As part of its architectural journey highlighting heritage and local culture, Nicolas Ghesquière, Artistic Director of Women’s Collections, has chosen to show in this marvel of Gothic architecture, classified as a Historic Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Embodied by the Cruise collections, the spirit of travel and the discovery of emblematic architectural monuments converge in the choice of this iconic location in Avignon, one of the most culturally rich cities in the south of France. Louis Vuitton will have the exclusive privilege of presenting its Cruise collection in this exceptional setting, a first in the history of this captivating landmark whose construction began in the Middle Ages – in 1335, under the initiative of Benedict XII, – and overlooks the city of Avignon.
Louis Vuitton organises shows around the world in globally renowned locations and architectural masterpieces, paying tribute to local craftsmanship. The House has, among others, organised its shows at the Bob and Dolores Hope Residence by John Lautner in Palm Springs; at the Oscar Niemeyer Museum of Contemporary Art in Niteroi; at the Miho Museum by I.M. Pei near Kyoto, and at the Salk Institute in California. This new stop particularly echoes Louis Vuitton’s first Cruise show at Place du Palais in Monaco, as well as the show at the Maeght Foundation in Saint-Paul de Vence.
True to Louis Vuitton’s tradition of supporting local heritage and community projects in the cities that host its Cruise shows, the House will contribute to the funding of a lighting project for the Palais des Papes, which is globally recognized for its historical and patrimonial value. This project, which aims to enhance the monumental architecture and ensure the safety of the roadways around the square, involves illuminating the facades of the buildings facing the square, including namely the Palais des Papes, the cathedral, the Petit Palais, the Hôtel des Monnaies, and the Hotel Calvet de la Palun.
The Cruise collection will be available in November 2025 in Louis Vuitton stores worldwide.
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