The iconic French house continues its architectural journey with a landmark presentation in Provence
Louis Vuitton is pleased to announce that its Cruise 2026 show will take place on May 22 at the Palais des Papes in Avignon, one of France’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, this marvel of Gothic architecture—classified as a Historic Monument and UNESCO World Heritage site—marks the latest stop in the Maison’s architectural journey.
For Artistic Director of Women’s Collections Nicolas Ghesquière, the setting serves as a natural backdrop for a collection rooted in travel and discovery. The Palais des Papes, whose construction began in 1335 under Pope Benedict XII, has never before hosted a fashion show. Overlooking the city of Avignon, the monument stands as a powerful symbol of history, culture, and craftsmanship—values deeply embedded in the DNA of Louis Vuitton.
This show joins a legacy of Cruise presentations staged at globally renowned architectural sites, including the Bob and Dolores Hope Residence in Palm Springs, the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum in Brazil, the Miho Museum in Kyoto, and the Salk Institute in California. It also echoes past shows set in the south of France, such as the inaugural Cruise show at Place du Palais in Monaco and the Maeght Foundation in Saint-Paul de Vence.
In keeping with its longstanding tradition of supporting heritage and community in host cities, Louis Vuitton will contribute to a local lighting initiative in Avignon. The project will enhance the surrounding square’s historic buildings—including the Palais des Papes, the cathedral, the Petit Palais, the Hôtel des Monnaies, and the Hôtel Calvet de la Palun—while improving safety and highlighting their architectural beauty.
Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 collection will be available in stores worldwide beginning November 2025.