In 1282, the construction of the Palazzo dei Papi began in Avignon, France, marking a significant architectural endeavor as the seat of the papacy was moved from Rome to Avignon. This monumental building would become a symbol of the papal authority and the Catholic Church's influence in Europe during the 14th century. The architectural style reflected the Gothic trends of the time and set a precedent for future ecclesiastical buildings, influencing both architecture and culture across the continent.

The establishment of the papacy in Avignon and the subsequent construction of the Palazzo dei Papi had a profound impact on poets and writers of the time, including Petrarch, who often reflected on the relationship between power and spirituality in his works. This shift in the center of religious authority inspired a wealth of poetry that explored themes of faith, politics, and the human condition, contributing to the development of Renaissance literature.