THE BERBIE, AN IMPOSING FORTRESS
The Palace of the Bishops of Albi or Berbie Palace (an Occitan word meaning bishop) was built on a naturally fortified site, overlooking the Tarn. Its military architecture affirms the power of the bishops against the consuls of the city. Over the centuries, the bishops transformed it into a leisure residence. Classified as a historic monument in 1862, it is one of the best preserved episcopal palaces in France. In the main courtyard, flanked by two towers, one now arrives at the entrance to the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. A visit to the palace is closely linked to the discovery of the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum: vaulted medieval rooms, pavements from the Middle-Ages, painted ceilings, chapel, gardens, renaissance gallery, large salons ... all of these in one building!
We recommend allowing 2 hours to fully appreciate the Berbie Palace and Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
THE PALACE GARDENS, REMARKABLE GARDENS
The Palace gardens are one of our visitors' favourite places in Albi. The old armory square has been trnasformed into a very classical French garden, worth a visit! The gardens' dedicated gardener takes cares of planting seasonal flowers and prunes the boxwood hedges. The gardens offer a panoramic view of the river Tarn, the traditonal boat pontoon, the Madelaine district and the countryside in the distance. On top of the facing hill, you can spot the "Notre Dame de la Drêche" church and if you turn around, back facing the river, you have a breathtaking view of the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral.
Opening hours
Free entry.
April - September: 8:00am - 7:00pm.
September - April: 8:00am - 6:00pm.
