Looking out from the Cathedral Sainte-Cécile and the car park of Teyssier Barracks, you might spot an old chimney. A reminder of the town's industrious past, that’s where steam once rose from an old hat factory. From 1850 to 1930, Albi was arguably one of the main hat-making centres in France. Unfortunately, World War I and changing fashions sounded the death knell for the local millinery industry. With declining demand, the factories were left empty and later almost all were levelled. A testament to this grand era, the chimney has now become a pilgrimage site for behatted visitors seeking nostalgia. The travel agency AGIT offers a short stop here as part of its guided tour of the neighbourhood. You can also organise a private visit to the chimney if you’re with a group of at least six. To book, send an email to lacheminee.albi@gmail.com.
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