A Day in Albi

Today I went to Albi with three American visitors. I must say, one could not hope for better visitors! These three women are curious learners with eyes always open to take in the beauty of their surroundings. Lovers of art, Albi was the perfect city to visit.

Albi is stunning. It is built out of Languedoc red-bricks in a style which is distinct to this region. The brickwork is fascinating, on the roads, the sighing centuries-old houses, and monuments. Over the river hang arched, red-brick bridges, the oldest of which was built in 1040.  These brick structures can also be imposing and commanding, such as it's fortress like Saint Cecile Cathedral, the presence of which dominates the city's views, even from it's charming medieval residential streets; and the castle (Palace de la Berbie). Both the Cathedral and Castle, perched over the river Tarn, were in fact built to demonstrate the power of the Catholic Church after their 'victory' in the crusade against the Cathars, a Christian sect common to Southern France and parts of Italy. 

Additionally, it is home to the Toulouse-Lautrec museum, which houses over 1,000 works from the artist born just miles from Albi. The collection is fantastic and well-curated. What's more, the museum is located within the Palace de la Berbie, one of Europe's largest and best-preserved castles. 

                        

After stopping by the Palace, I continued upwards on a curious street, hugging the sides of the palace, built out of large stones, as if I were walking on a dry riverbed. The street led me to a hight from which to see the countryside on the opposite bank of the Tarn, a more intimate perspective of the castle, and the geometric gardens. A stroll through the gardens, boasted views of the river, brides and gardens.

One of my favorite things about Albi is finding your own spot of solitude, from which you can contemplate at leisure, fully taking in the artistry of the brickwork, the ancient structures, or the magnificent views. Whether its the quiet cloisters of the Saint Salvi Church, the pool of water leading to the roman arches, or one one of the many bustling cafes surrounding the Cathedral, there is a place to stop and take in the city.