Notre-Dame de Reims

Notre-Dame de Reims is not just a religious monument; it is a symbol of the French nation. The current structure, begun in 1211, was designed specifically to accommodate the massive crowds that attended the coronations of French monarchs. The cathedral's western facade is particularly famous for its gallery of kings and the intricate portal sculptures, most notably the 'Ange au Sourire' (Smiling Angel), which has become an emblem of the city of Reims.

Inside, the sheer scale of the nave, stretching 138 meters in length and reaching 38 meters in height, is designed to draw the eye upward toward the heavens. The cathedral is also celebrated for its stained glass, which spans several centuries. While much of the original medieval glass was destroyed over time, the cathedral features stunning 20th-century replacements, including the vibrant blue windows created by Marc Chagall in 1974, and more recent additions by Imi Knoebel, blending contemporary art with medieval architecture.

Reasons to Visit

• Witness the site where 33 Kings of France were crowned, including Charles VII with Joan of Arc by his side.
• Admire one of the finest examples of High Gothic architecture in Europe.
• See the famous 'Smiling Angel' sculpture on the western facade.
• View the magnificent stained glass windows, including modern masterpieces by Marc Chagall.
• Experience a UNESCO World Heritage site that has survived centuries of history, including heavy WWI bombardments.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting during major religious services if you wish to freely walk around and take photographs.
• Do not speak loudly or use flash photography inside the cathedral, as it is an active place of worship.
• Avoid driving directly to the cathedral square; parking is limited, and the area is highly pedestrianized.
• Skip the tower climb if you have mobility issues or claustrophobia, as the spiral staircases are narrow and steep.

Local Transportation Tips

Reims is a highly walkable city, and the cathedral is located right in the pedestrian-friendly city center. For longer distances, the city operates an excellent public transportation network called Citura, which includes buses and a modern, colorful tram system. The tram lines A and B both stop near the cathedral (stop: Opéra-Cathédrale). If arriving by train, Reims Central Station (Gare de Reims) is only a 10-15 minute walk from the cathedral.

Travel Etiquette

• Dress modestly when entering the cathedral; remove hats and ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
• Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, as people may be praying.
• Do not use flash photography inside the building.
• Follow all posted signs regarding restricted areas, especially near the altar and choir.

Recommended Age Group

Notre-Dame de Reims offers a profound historical and visual experience that appeals to a wide range of visitors.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The main floor is accessible for strollers, but the environment requires quiet, and tower climbs are not possible.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will be fascinated by the massive stained glass windows, the sheer size of the building, and spotting the gargoyles on the exterior.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The rich history of French kings and Joan of Arc provides an engaging educational experience that brings history books to life.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can fully appreciate the architectural details, historical significance, and the proximity to world-class Champagne houses.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The ground floor is highly accessible and offers seating, though the tower climb involves steep stairs and should be avoided by those with mobility issues.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The main entrance and the entire ground floor of the nave and aisles are flat and fully accessible to wheelchair users.
• Accessible restrooms are located nearby at the Reims Tourist Office.
• Tactile models of the cathedral are available for visually impaired visitors.
• The tower climb is not accessible for wheelchair users or those with severe mobility impairments due to narrow, steep spiral staircases.

Did You Know?

During World War I, Notre-Dame de Reims was heavily bombarded by German artillery, causing a massive fire that melted the lead roof and destroyed much of the interior. The cathedral's restoration, heavily funded by the Rockefeller family, became a symbol of French resilience and post-war reconstruction.

Cool Statistics

• The cathedral features over 2,300 statues, making it one of the most richly decorated cathedrals in Europe.
• The two western towers stand at 81 meters (266 feet) tall.
• The interior length of the cathedral is 138.75 meters (455 feet).
• 33 French kings were crowned here between 816 and 1825.
• The rose window on the main facade is 12.5 meters (41 feet) in diameter.