Albi, located about 75km Northeast of Toulouse on the left bank of the Tarn (maps), is the main city of the Département Tarn and since 1672 the seat of an archbishop. The city gave its name to the Albigensian sect (cathars) of the 12th and 13th century and the Albigensian wars of 1209-1229.(Bibliography) The city landscape is dominated by the cathedral Ste-Cécile , 1282-1390; restored in the 19th century (plans and drawings). With its red-brick façade, the 41 meter high defensive walls and massive tower it is one of the best preserved examples of Gothic architecture in Southern France. I was particularly struck by the beautiful, ornate interior which is such a contrast to the somber, fortress-like exterior. Just north of the cathedral is the former palace of the archbishop (Palais de la Berbie) which houses the Musée Henri deToulouse-Lautrec. Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901) was born in Albi and the museum contains the most complete permanent collection of his works. From the beautiful terraced gardens of the Palais you get a wonderful view of the Tarn.
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