Palace of Tau

The Palace of Tau in Reims is the former archbishop’s palace adjacent to Reims Cathedral, long associated with the coronation ceremonies of French kings. It houses museum displays focused on coronation regalia, liturgical objects and sculpture taken from the cathedral.

Exhibition rooms present sculptures, reliquaries and tapestries that illustrate the cathedral’s role in French royal ritual, and visitors can view the palace’s ceremonial halls and chapels. The palace complements a visit to the cathedral by interpreting the rites and objects used during coronations.

Originally the medieval residence of the archbishops of Reims, the building evolved architecturally from Romanesque and Gothic phases and was adapted over centuries to serve ceremonial and residential functions. It suffered damage during conflict and was restored and converted into a museum to preserve its collections and history.

The palace stands immediately beside Reims Cathedral in the city of Reims, in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, forming a compact historical complex frequently visited together.

• UNESCO ensemble: The palace is part of the Reims cathedral ensemble listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is adjacent to the cathedral where French kings were crowned.

What to See #

• Coronation rooms: Great ceremonial spaces historically used by archbishops and for post-coronation receptions connected with Reims Cathedral ceremonies.
• Museum rooms: Museum galleries displaying statuary, liturgical objects, tapestries and sculptural fragments related to the cathedral's coronation tradition.
• Palace apartments and chapels: Medieval and later residential apartments and chapels that formed the archbishop's palace complex.