Reims

Reims is a city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, the capital of the Marne department. Located on the Vesle river, it is a major urban and economic center in the Champagne region. Reims is famous for its association with the Champagne wine industry and for its historic cathedral.

Historically, the site dates back to the Gallo-Roman city of Durocortorum Remorum. In the Middle Ages it became an important ecclesiastical center as the seat of the Archbishop of Reims. From the 11th to the 19th century, coronations of French kings were held at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, a symbol of the monarchy’s alliance with the church. The nearby Palais du Tau and the Basilica of Saint-Remi are part of the same religious complex and today form part of UNESCO’s Routes of Church Architecture for the Champagne-Ardenne. The cathedral sustained heavy damage during World War I and was subsequently rebuilt.

The city hosts several world-famous champagne houses with cellars and production facilities in and around Reims, making it a focal point for visitors seeking champagne tours and tastings. In addition to wine, Reims has theatres, museums such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts and a range of historic monuments.

Reims is served by a major rail station with frequent TGV connections to Paris and other cities, and it lies at the junction of highways in the region. The city continues to balance its historical heritage with modern industry and tourism.