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Reims and its surroundings

Reims is where the Kings of France used to be crowned, and the city’s outstanding heritage bears witness to its royal history, with several listed monuments to its credit. A striking contrast with its legacy of Art Deco, of which the city is France’s proud capital. Reims is also famous for its Champagne Houses, which enjoy a worldwide reputation.


A storied heritage steeped in history

The many chapters in the city of Reims’ past have provided it with a monumental architectural heritage, with four of its sites currently on the UNESCO World Heritage List: Reims Cathedral, the Tau Palace, Saint-Remi Abbey and Saint-Nicaise Hill.

But the “City of Coronations and Champagne” is also an outstanding showcase for fans of Art Deco, a movement whose architectural creations are awaiting their admiration in almost every street.

Admire Reims’ majestic cathedral

One of the city’s absolute must-sees, Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral is a pure Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 13th century and a landmark in the History of France, as no fewer than 25 of the country’s Kings were crowned there.

 

Go inside and its decoration will take your breath away, with over 2000 magnificent statues and some of the world’s most gorgeous stained-glass windows, a number of them created by Marc Chagall.

Cathédrale de Reims

Saint-Rémi’s sumptuous harmony

Another monument on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Romanesque-Gothic Saint-Remi Basilica is famous for housing the tomb of the bishop who baptised Clovis, France’s first king, in 498.

 

126 metres long, this relic of Romanesque art is not only impressive for its sheer splendour but also for the feeling of intimacy that it inspires. You can’t help but be awestruck before its Romanesque nave, a full four storeys high and still today a perfect example of restraint, elegance and harmony.

Vignoble de Champagne

Reims and Champagne!

Impossible to visit Reims without talking about the worldwide celebrity of champagne that has done so much for the City of Kings – and for Epernay, the so-called “Champagne Capital”. Here, Champagne is everywhere and it’s a whole world unto itself, combining the luxury of the greatest Champagne Houses, the majesty of their cellars, the splendour of Champagne’s vineyards and the authenticity of encounters with the winegrowers awaiting your arrival!

 

You’ll be spoilt for choice between the internationally renowned great Houses. And at the end of your visit, the much anticipated tasting session* will give you a chance to savour the House’s flagship vintage.

 

* The abuse of alcohol is dangerous for your health. Consume with moderation.

Reims, France’s Art Deco Capital

Reims also enjoys an architectural heritage resulting from its more recent history, thanks to Art Deco, whose buildings have formed an integral part of the urban landscape since the 1920s. This typically French architectural movement focuses on uncluttered style, pure lines, and geometrical features decorated with mosaics and floral sculptures.

 

It was after the First World War that Art Deco resolutely established itself in Reims, as almost the whole city had to be rebuilt, and a new eye was at work. In just a few decades, the new architectural movement, promoted by such well-known architects as Henry Royer, was accepted as the best solution for renewing a city much of which had been demolished in the Great War.

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