The Palais des Papes of Avignon visible today mainly originates from the work of Pope Benedict XII and his successor Clement VI. The initial work was led by architect Pierre Poisson from 1335. The building uses the organization of the pontifical residence of John XXII, which adjoins the cathedral. The Tour du Pape dominating the city with its high walls constitutes its major element connected to the buildings of the court by two bodies of private apartments. At the heart of the papal apartments, it protects the sacred person of the pope and the riches of the Church.