Exploring the Jewel of Tarn

If you are interested in the Albigensians' history and have a passion for medieval culture, consider visiting Albi! Standing proudly on the banks of the Tarn River, Albi is the town where tradition and modernity co-exist in perfect harmony. The historical center, with its straight cobble-stoned streets flanked by tall half-timbered houses, has kept its medieval aspect and provides excellent examples of French civil and religious architecture. Surprisingly, Albi passed largely unscathed through a succession of dramatic events, and most of its landmark structures have not changed for centuries. Inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list in 2010, the Episcopal City of Albi is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Languedoc.
Tour Highlights: The Cathedral of Sainte-Cécile; Episcopal palace with its promenade overlooking the Tarn river; Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, the world largest collection of the artist's works; Pont Vieux, one of the oldest bridges in France.

A masterpiece of Southern Gothic architecture, this imposing brick cathedral was constructed in the aftermath of the Albigensian crusade (XIII-XV cc). Its austere fortress-like exterior presents a striking contrast to its lavish interior with its giant fresco of the Last Judgment, the Italian Renaissance style sumptuous painted vault, the ornate stone choir screen and carved medieval statues of prophets, saints and angels.
Inscribed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 2010, it is considered one of the most visited monuments in Europe.