Cathedral of Notre Dame Former Abbey of Saint R Mi and Palace of Tau Reims

Guide to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi, and Palace of Tau in Reims, France

Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting city of Reims, France! Home to an abundance of historical and architectural marvels, one of the most iconic sites is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, the Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi, and the Palace of Tau. This comprehensive guide will help you explore these captivating attractions that have played significant roles in French history.

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame (Notre-Dame de Reims)

Built between 1211 and 1311, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It’s most famously known for being the site where kings of France were traditionally crowned since the 10th century.

Key Features:

  1. Stained Glass Windows: The cathedral boasts over 2,300 square meters of stained glass, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The most famous is the Great West Rose Window, a stunning example of medieval artistry.

  2. The Smiling Angel: A 14th-century gargoyle known as “L’Ange Baveur” or “The Smiling Angel,” located just below the south tower, greets visitors with its playful expression.

  3. Portals: The cathedral has three portals—the Royal Portal, the Ambassadors’ Portal, and the Faculty Portal. Each portal tells a story from the Bible.

  4. Interior: Entering the cathedral, you’ll be awestruck by its soaring vaults, intricate sculptures, and delicate tracery. The choir is particularly breathtaking with its 16th-century organ case.

Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi (Abbaye Saint-Rémy)

Located next to the cathedral, the Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi was once a Benedictine abbey dedicated to St. Remigius, the bishop who baptized Clovis I in 496 AD. Today, it serves as the Musée de la Tapisserie de la Reine (Queen’s Tapestry Museum).

Key Features:

  1. The Queen’s Tapestry: Woven between 15th and 16th centuries in Flanders, the tapestry depicts the coronation of Charles VII and his wife, Marie de Cleves. It’s a stunning example of Flemish artistry and an essential piece of French history.

  2. Archaeological Site: The abbey houses an archaeological site showcasing Romanesque architecture and artifacts dating back to the Merovingian period.

Palace of Tau (Palais de Tau)

Originally a bishop’s palace, the Palace of Tau was rebuilt in the 15th century to house the relics of the Coronation of the Virgin and Christ’s Crown of Thorns. Today, it serves as the Musée de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame (Notre-Dame Workshop Museum).

Key Features:

  1. Relics: The palace houses several important relics, including the Holy Ampulla used for anointing kings during their coronation and a piece of the True Cross.

  2. Art and Architecture: Admire the intricate woodcarvings, stained glass, and tapestries that adorn the palace. The Chapel of the Coronation is particularly noteworthy for its beautiful decorations.

  3. Garden: The Palace of Tau has a charming garden with a stunning rose bush known as ‘Reine des Roses.’

We hope this guide has piqued your interest in exploring the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi, and Palace of Tau during your visit to Reims. These remarkable attractions promise an unforgettable journey through French history and Gothic artistry. Enjoy your trip!