On the banks of the River Tarn, as it meanders its way down from the Massif Central, is the historic town of Albi. It is located centrally within the department of Tarn and is the prefecture town of the department, as well as a centre for tourism and commerce. Not far from the international airport at Toulouse, Albi and the surrounding countryside are easily accessible to tourists and those seeking inexpensive French property in amongst the rolling hills of Central Southern France.
Albi's most famous son is the artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. He spent much of his short life riding the wave created by the Romantic Bohemians in Paris in the 19th century. He was to have an affinity with the Moulin Rouge during his time in Paris, where he produced such famous works as At the Moulin Rouge, La Goulue Arriving at the Moulin Rouge with Two Women, and Ambassadeurs: Aristide Bruant. The Toulose-Lautrec Museum in Albi houses some 500 pieces of the artist's work.
Albi is a very beautiful place in which to search for French property as a holiday home or permanent residence. In the town itself are many fine buildings dating back several centuries. Across from the 13th century cathedral, near the bridge in the old town is some exquisite Albi property overlooking the Tarn River. Outside the town in the surrounding countryside Albi property is cheap. A 6-bed villa in France between Albi and Castres to the south can be acquired for around 200,000 euros.
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