Albi is a town and commune in southern France. It is the capital of the Tarn département, and is located on the Tarn River, 50 miles northeast of Toulouse. Its inhabitants are called Albigensians.

FACTS AND FIGURES

• Population: 46,500
• The first human settlement in Albi was in the Bronze Age.
• Was a center for Cathar heresy and gave its name to Albigensian Crusade launched against it by Pope Innocent III in 13th century
• Albi has conserved its rich architectural heritage which encapsulates the various brilliant periods of its history

SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

• Reddish, fortress-like Sainte-Cécile Cathedral (built just after Albigensian Crusade; features rare rood screen)
• Albi Cathedral
• Palais de la Berbie
• Musee Toulouse-Lautrec