Reims Cathedral

A Gothic masterpiece and the coronation church of the kings of France, Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its façade, with its thousands of statues, is one of the most impressive anywhere.

Getting there

By train: Reims station (TGV from Paris in about 45 minutes), then a 15-minute walk. By car: parking in the city centre or car parks near the cathedral square.

History

Built mainly in the 13th century, it was the setting for the coronation of most of the kings of France, including that of Charles VII in 1429 in the presence of Joan of Arc. The apse features stained-glass windows created by Marc Chagall in the 20th century.

Culture & stories

The famous “Smiling Angel” watches over the north portal. The cathedral has exceptional statuary, among the richest in Europe.

Location