Sainte-Cécile, the largest brick cathedral in the world, imposes the appearance of a fortified castle. Whoever pushes the door, a striking vision of colors, paintings, sculptures, statuary is revealed. The Sainte-Cécile d'Albi cathedral is the first tourist site visited in the Episcopal City listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also in the Tarn.
The largest brick cathedral in the world is in Albi
Wherever you come from, by road from Toulouse, Rodez, Millau, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Sainte-Céci cathedralle, is there, as if placed on the city, massive and proud, dominating the Albi roofs. Look at it carefully, it is not comparable to any other. The singularity of its style Southern Gothic (13th century), its military aspect, distinguishes it from cathedrals such as Chartres, Reims, Amiens which are contemporary to it.
AND also the largest fully painted cathedral in Europe
18 m² of frescoes and decorations make it the largest painted cathedral in Europe. It reads like an illustrated Bible. It is imbued with the artistic talent of Renaissance painters. Take the time to observe the colors, geometric patterns, optical illusion sometimes introducing a note of humor. Animals and characters blend into the paintings.
The Canons' Choir
A white stone fence, real stone lacework, separates the cathedral into two parts: the nave and the choir. Beyond the stone screen lies the choir of canons, a real church within the cathedral. The ambulatory, (corridor surrounding the large choir), presentsare statues of stone chiseled by Burgundian Masters.
Enjoy carefully all the details of the clothes, the facial features, the folds of the skin…a wave of a magic wand could bring them to life. Please note that these 200 statues make it the most important statuary in France for the end of the Middle Ages.
Good plan with Albi City pass
Entrance included in the Great Choir and Treasure Rooms
With the city pass, enjoy a combined entry to the Grand Choir of the Canons (audio guide included) and to the Treasury of the Cathedral. Admission is included in the pass, no additional payment!
Also enjoy included entry to Toulouse-Lautrec museum, permanent collections and temporary exhibition and in addition to many reductions for your visits and activities
Guided tours to discover the cathedral…
What better experience than discovering Sainte-Cécile in the light of commentary from a tour guide. or even during the summer following the priest's visit. Whether you are passing through, with friends, or in groups, we have suggestions for you. Discover the visits!
The Treasure Rooms: a museum of sacred art
Practical information
| Opening hours from January 01 to December 31, 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Monday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Tuesday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Wednesday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Thursday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Friday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Saturday | Open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. |
| Sunday | Open from 13 p.m. to 17:30 p.m. |
No visits during the celebrations
| Admission fees | Min. | Max. |
|---|---|---|
| Full price |
6 € | - |
| Reduced price |
5 € | - |
| Family package |
5 € | - |
