Notre-Dame de Reims (Our Lady of Reims), is the
cathedral of Reims, France. The seat of the town’s Archdiocese, and for a time
a place of coronation of French kings, Reims Cathedral is a remarkable work of
Gothic architecture and art. Visitors can climb the Cathedral’s towers to take
in the artistic masterpiece from above for better views of the sculptures,
gilding details, and architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage site includes the
Palais of Tau and the Abbey of Saint Remi.
Before the current cathedral was built, a
Carolingian basilica once stood on the grounds, though it burnt to the ground
in a fire around 1210. That church was likely constructed over the ruins from
ancient Roman baths.
The cathedral was reconstructed and drastically
expanded during the 13th century,in order to better accommodate large crowds
who attended royal coronations. A 1233 revolt over taxation and legal issues
set the cathedral’s construction back a few years, resuming in 1236 after
troubles were resolved with mediation through the King and the Pope.
Construction continued in various phases over the cathedral, even into the 14th
century.
The cathedral was designed in the classical Gothic
style architecture, featuring a façade decorated with many intricate sculptural
details. The statues on the façade include local bishops, prophets, apostles,
and Jesus, and a scene of Crowning of the Virgin. The scene of the Visitation
includes the figure of Elizabeth.
Inside, the cathedral was adorned with tapestries,
including a special one representing the life of Mary. This and other works of
art, are housed in the Palace of Tau, along with the treasury with rare and
unique objects, like Sainte Ampoule, the holy flask. The traditional Gothic
style is lightened using structural changes, such as more wall openings and
more natural light, which shines through the detailed stained glass, created by
Marc Chagall.
The neighboring abbey features a 9th century nave,
containing the remains of Archbishop St. Remi, who died in 533. Reims was once
an important Christian city, home to many important archbishops including Remi,
the most famous of them who was known for the baptism of Clovis.
Admission charges are 7.50 € for adults. Minors and
people within the 18-25 age group are freely admitted.
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