Reims, France

Reims -- a city in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France, lies 129 km (80 miles) east-northeast of Paris. Founded by the Gauls, it became a major city during the period of the Roman Empire.


From Rimboval (where we stayed the night before - thanks to Dominique and Carine for accomodating Patrick and me), we went for a quick stop to Reims en route to Paris.   The first half of our day was spent visiting the magnificent historical landmarks of Reims, several of which are included in the World Heritage List maintained by UNESCO.  We started by visiting the sublime Notre Dame de Reims, which is illuminated by the pure, radiant expression of its famous smiling angel, a masterpiece of French Gothic sculpture.  Apart from its status as champagne capital of the world, Reims possesses one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in France – formerly the coronation church of dynasties of French monarchs going back to Clovis, first king of France.  Thus, the Cathedral of Reims (damaged by the Germans during the First World War but restored since) played the same role in France as Westminster Abbey did in England.  The glowing stained glass and lacy stonework of Champagne's cathedrals are testaments not only to an enduring Christian faith, but also to a common will to assert France's unique place in the world through its art, its technical mastery, and its architecture.

Also not to be missed is the Palace of Tau. The former Archbishop's Palace was built by Mansart and Robert de Cotte in 1690. Today it houses the cathedral's museum with tapestries, sculptures and artifacts from the kings' coronations. 

Then, just nearby is Saint Rémi Basilica (which, unfortunately, we're not able to visit due to time constraints ), the largest Romanesque pilgrimage church in northern France. As the name indicates, it was built in honor of Saint Rémi.


After our quick stop to this historical place, we hit the road again..and call it a blessing, I saw this very old but beautiful chateau on top of the tunnel!  I don't know what it's called, but I'm just amazed on how old architectures are preserved in this part of Europe.