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The Palace of Tau, located in Reims, France, served as the residence of the Kings of France before their coronation at the adjacent Notre-Dame de Reims. Originally built as a bishop's palace in the 6th century, it was largely rebuilt in the Gothic style and later modified in the 17th century. Today, it functions as a museum housing the treasury of the cathedral, including the talisman of Charlemagne and the chalice of Saint Remi. Visitors can explore the grand banquet hall, known as the Salle du Tau, where royal coronation banquets were held. The museum offers a profound glimpse into the religious and monarchical history of France, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts. Its UNESCO World Heritage status underscores its global cultural significance and architectural beauty.
The Palace of Tau (Palais du Tau) stands as a monumental testament to the intertwined history of the French monarchy and the Catholic Church. Located immediately adjacent to the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims, this former archbishop's palace was the traditional residence for French kings as they prepared for their coronation ceremonies. The building's name derives from its T-shaped plan, resembling the Greek letter 'tau'. Originally constructed in the 6th century, the palace underwent significant Gothic renovations in the late 15th century and classical modifications by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Robert de Cotte in the 17th century.
Today, the Palace of Tau operates as a national monument and museum, safeguarding the treasury of the cathedral. Among its most prized possessions are the talisman of Charlemagne, a 9th-century jewel, and the chalice of Saint Remi, used during the coronation mass. The Salle du Tau, the grand banquet hall adorned with 15th-century tapestries, allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the lavish feasts that followed the crowning of a new king. Together with the Cathedral and the former Abbey of Saint-Remi, the Palace of Tau was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, cementing its status as a cornerstone of European cultural heritage.
Reims is well-connected by public transportation. The Palace of Tau is located in the city center and is easily accessible on foot from the Reims central train station (Gare de Reims), which is about a 15-minute walk away. The city also operates an efficient tram and bus network (Citura). If you are driving, there are several paid parking garages nearby, though navigating the historic center's narrow streets can be challenging.
The Palace of Tau offers a fascinating journey through French history, appealing to a wide range of visitors.
The Palace of Tau was severely damaged by artillery fire during World War I, along with the neighboring cathedral. It underwent extensive restoration work in the 20th century to return it to its former glory, preserving its historical significance for future generations.
The best time to visit the Palace of Tau is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather in Reims is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller.
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Visiting the Palace of Tau is a highly affordable experience for tourists exploring Reims, as it primarily involves a modest museum entry fee. With TravelingWiz's Human Verified data, a typical traveler should expect to spend around $120 USD per day for a mid-range trip in Reims, which includes accommodation, meals, and local attractions. A standard adult ticket to the palace costs approximately 8 to 10 Euros, while a casual lunch at a nearby café might run you 15 to 20 Euros. Click the Trip Cost Calculator button below the table to work out your personal budget for this trip.
Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.
Full daily spend estimation (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions).
Travel Style | Euro (EUR) | ≈ USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
Budget | 70 | 75 |
Mid-range | 110 | 120 |
Comfort | 250 | 270 |
The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.
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