In the department of Tarn, in the Occitanie region of southern France

 “Wandering re-establishes the original harmony, which once existed between man and the universe.” – Anatole France

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(in the Occitanie region of southern France) The department of Tarn (named after the Tarn River, extending east of Toulouse), has no shortage of attractions, including the city of Albi, which is blessed with one of the most striking cathedrals in France, and graceful Cordes-sur-Ciel. Further along the Tarn valley, Moissac and Montauban are well worth a visit for their architectural heritage.

+ With its stunning location on the banks of the Tarn, Albi deserves its nickname of "the red city." A mixture of brick and stone, this episcopal city (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is considered one of the pearls of the southwest -- due to its superb buildings and captivating charm. To soak up the atmosphere of the city, wander the narrow old streets of the historic city center, or along the banks of the Tarn. On the way, admire the old brick and half-timbered houses and the Renaissance mansions.

+ A gem of the southern French Gothic style, the Cathedral of St. Cecilia (pictured here) is the world's biggest brick cathedral (and the largest painted cathedral in Europe). Built from 1282 to 1480, it presents a richly decorated interior: lots of frescoes, a roodscreen in the flamboyant Gothic style and remarkable statuary. Look up to the vaulted ceiling and admire magnificent decorations in the Italian Renaissance style. The large organ with four keyboards dates from the 18th century. It is placed just above one of the oldest depictions of the Last Judgement, painted in the 15th century. Another attraction is a facsimile of the Mappa Mundi, one of the pages of a manuscript belonging to the cathedral chapter. In the Treasury, nine information signs tell the cathedral's whole story, from the 8th century to the present day.

+ Next to the great fortress-like cathedral is the Berbie Palace, formerly the Bishops' Palace, another architectural gem. With a ceremonial courtyard and a tower on either side, it is still very well preserved. Built in the 18th century, the palace houses the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, exhibiting many works by the famous Albi-born artist: early paintings, portraits, scenes from brothels, and prints from the world of entertainment. Round off your visit with a walk in the magnificent palace gardens, offering a superb panoramic view of the river, the banks of the Tarn, the Pont-Vieux bridge, and the surrounding hills in the distance.

+ Continue your tour of Albi by visiting the 11th-century Collegiate Church of St. Salvi, a subtle blend of brick and stone. Inside this fascinating monument combining Romanesque and Gothic styles, six large paintings tell the life story of St. Salvi as well as the history of the city. Under the organ, look carefully at the fine details and colors of the sculptures. Then head towards the charming cloister with Romanesque arcades and surprising carved Gothic capitals.