Reims Cathedral

Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims) is a major Gothic cathedral in Reims, northeastern France, principally built from the early 13th century. It is historically significant as the traditional coronation church for French kings and as an outstanding example of High Gothic architecture.

The cathedral’s West Façade is notable for its sculptural program, including a gallery of kings and a large rose window, while the interior features soaring 13th-century vaults and extensive stained glass. The building attracts visitors for its architecture, sculpture and the chance to see Gothic structural and decorative elements up close.

Construction of the present cathedral began in the 13th century, replacing earlier church buildings on the site; major building campaigns took place in the 1200s. The cathedral sustained severe damage during World War I and was the subject of extensive 20th-century restoration work.

The cathedral sits in central Reims in the Grand Est region, adjacent to the city’s principal squares and near other heritage sites such as the Palace of Tau and the Saint-Remi Basilica. Reims is northeast of Paris and is one of the main cities of France’s Champagne region.

• UNESCO site: Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Palace of Tau and the Abbey of Saint-Remi for its role in the coronation of French kings.
• Art and stained glass: Interior contains a large collection of medieval sculpture and extensive stained glass, including 20th-century windows by noted artists.

What to See#

• West Façade: The ornate West Façade with its gallery of kings and large rose window forms the cathedral’s principal frontage and is the classic view approached from the square in front.
• Nave and choir: The nave and choir contain high Gothic vaulting from the 13th century, extensive medieval sculpture and large stained-glass windows including 20th-century additions.
• Crypt and chapels: The crypt and chapels house relics and older architectural layers predating the principal Gothic rebuilding of the 13th century.

Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre‑Dame de Reims) is in central Reims. The fastest public route from Paris is the SNCF TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims station (about 45 minutes); from Reims station the cathedral is an easy 10-15 minute walk (roughly 800-1,000 m) through the city centre. By car use the A4 motorway toward Reims and follow local signs to the city centre and cathedral parking areas.

• Visit first thing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest tour times and to see the stained glass and façade details in softer light; check the cathedral's schedule because access may be limited during services.
• Enter via the western façade to appreciate the sculpted portals, then allow time to see the adjacent Palais du Tau museum (nearby) which houses coronation regalia and historical exhibits many visitors skip.
• If you want guided context on the sculptures and stained glass (including modern additions), join one of the cathedral's guided tours or pick up an audio guide at the entrance-these explain details that are easy to miss on a quick walk-through.