1. Reims Cathedral: Reims' Crowning Glory
Reims Cathedral could lay claim to being the birthplace of France, as it was there in the 5th century that Clovis, ruler of the Franks, accepted Christianity. After that the cathedral became a regular spot for crowning and marrying monarchs, including Louis XVI, who lost his head in the revolution. Nowadays, the building reflects its regal past, with splendid statues of ancient kings, a soaring nave, spectacular tapestries, and famous stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. It's a truly breathtaking sight.
2. Palace of Tau: Walk in the Footsteps of Royal Glory
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is an exquisite palace, which was once home to the Archbishop of Reims - crowner of kings. Located more or less right next to the cathedral, it has a classically Baroque appearance, befitting the place where monarchs rested before their coronations. Now, visitors can walk in the hallways where kings-to-be contemplated their responsibilities, and also see a fabulous collection of tapestries, gold chalices and statues. The two attractions complement each other brilliantly.
3. Musée des Beaux-Arts: An Artistic Treasure Trove
Just down the road from the cathedral and the Palace of Tau, the Musée des Beaux-Arts offers up a cornucopia of creative riches. Started in the 1790s, and initially stocked from the collections of local nobles, the museum now spans over 500 years of European art, featuring engravings, sketches, sculptures and, of course, plenty of watercolors and oil paintings. Big names abound, from Cranach the Elder, through to David, Courbet, Monet, and Matisse as the exhibition leads visitors through centuries of artistic genius.
4. Basilique Saint-Remi: A Testament to Gothic Greatness
Another holy site in French history, the Basilique Saint-Remi is revered for holding the bones of Saint Remi (hence the name), the intrepid bishop who persuaded Clovis to convert to Christianity, securing France for Catholicism. These days, the basilica is protected by UNESCO, and is a Gothic masterpiece. You can soak up the tranquility as you sit in the transept, or gaze at the 900-year-old stained glass windows. And, if you time your visit well, there are regular music and light shows on summer evenings which feature the magnificent Cattiaux grand organ. It's hard to envision a more magical way to spend an evening.
5. Musée-Hôtel le Vergeur: A Little Gem of a Museum
When you've seen the basilicas, cathedrals and palaces of Reims, the Musée-Hôtel le Vergeur offers something much more humble, but just as absorbing. This museum is housed in a restored 13th century home, which is part of the charm. However, what really astounds visitors is the art collection on display. The museum is home to a dazzling collection of works by Albrecht Dürer, as well as Renaissance furnishings, and exhibits showing scenes from the 19th century. Located just to the north of the city center, it's well worth the short walk, particularly on sunny days when the gardens are sublime.
