Saint-Cécile Cathedral

Sainte-Cécile Cathedral of Albi

Sainte-Cécile Cathedral is the jewel of Albi and the largest brick cathedral in the world. The Albi audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this masterpiece of Southern Gothic, the heart of the episcopal city inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The largest brick cathedral in the world

Built from the thirteenth century, Sainte-Cécile Cathedral is the largest brick cathedral in the world. Its massive silhouette, similar to a fortress, testifies to the power of the Church after the crusade against the Cathars. Inside, the contrast is striking: painted vaults, a finely sculpted stone rood screen and an immense fresco of the Last Judgement make it a treasure of medieval art, the heart of the episcopal city of Albi.

What to see

You admire the massive brick silhouette, the painted vaults, the finely sculpted rood screen and the immense fresco of the Last Judgement, in an atmosphere of contemplation. Sainte-Cécile is the jewel of Albi and a treasure of medieval art. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect, in the heart of the episcopal city.

Practical information

Sainte-Cécile Cathedral lies in the heart of the episcopal city of Albi, reachable on foot. A working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry to the cathedral is generally free, access to the choir and the treasury possibly having a fee, according to hours that vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

What is particular about Sainte-Cécile Cathedral of Albi?

It is the largest brick cathedral in the world, with a fortress silhouette, whose interior holds painted vaults, a sculpted rood screen and an immense fresco of the Last Judgement.

Where is Sainte-Cécile Cathedral?

In the heart of the episcopal city of Albi, in the Tarn.