The historic center of Albi is a concentrate of jewels. It unfolds around the episcopal complex formed by the cathedral and the Palais de la Berbie. The brick signs the identity and unity of the old centre. To discover Albi is to adopt for a few hours, a day, a stay a serene rhythm of visit in a privileged environment.
The Castelviel district is the cradle of the city, its squares surrounded by medieval houses make it a real postcard
Towards Castelviel
The historic cradle of the city is located in this district of Castelvieil which faces the powerful bell tower of the Sainte-Cécile cathedral. It is an old fortified town, owned by the Montfort family in the Middle Ages. A line on the ground allows you to identify the location of the fortified enclosure. In this district, strolling towards Bondidou, you can still see remains of the ramparts.
1st photo spot: The cathedral bell tower
In line with the imposing bell tower is Rue du Castelvieil. From this street, you can clearly feel the full power of this 72-metre-high bell tower.
Rue du Castelviel, link between the cathedral district and Place du Château
A gourmet break in this neighborhood?
Place Savene
The detour is essential by the Place Savene and its appearance of a small village in the city. THE half-timbered houses, colorful and flowery are organized in a circle all around the square, the roofs are dominated by the imposing cathedral in the background. Place Savène and Place du Château are the scene of open-air performances offered in July and August during the free festival, Place(s) for artists.
Place Savene
Castle Square
From the Place du Château, you can see the promontory on which the Sainte-Cécile cathedral is located. Here you will find the ideal photo spot, strike a pose in front of the XXL letters: ALBI.
You will be attracted by:
- The mural
- the photo spot, unmissable at the foot of an ALBI in XXL letters
- The water mirror
- The panorama over the bed of the Tarn and the Pratgraussals base, just on the opposite shore
Beyond the bridge
It is by taking the Republic Bridge that you reach, in a few minutes, the Halle du Castelvieil. Every Saturday, it hosts a flea market, a true Albigensian institution where people come to hunt, look for rare items, and exchange ideas.
The Castelvieil markets
A little further, for a sport and nature activity
old fortifications
Old fortified town, you can still see remnants of ramparts. From Place du Château, take Rue du Théron which leads to the Bondidou car park, a former ravine.
