Cathedrale of Reims
The Monument
The construction of the twin towers of the cathedral of Rheims began in 1241, at the same time as the rest of the facade. The facade was completed in 1311, while the two towers were not finished until the 15th century. The spire that had originally been planned were abandoned after a fire in 1481; the works had begun, but funds were undoubtedly lacking to complete them.
The two towers, and especially the north tower, were severely damaged during the First World War. They were later considerably restored.
The first level is pierced by very broad twinned bays; on the second level, a row of small narrow arches supports the gallery of the Kings. Above this rises the last level, which dates from the 15th century. It is composed of a square base which is surmounted by an octagonal drum. Four small open bell towers occupy the four sides of the base.
Lodging
See the listing of the Hotels in Reims
Practical information
Cathedrale of Reims
2, place du Cardinal Luçon
BP 2062
51 072 Reims cedex
Going there
From Châlons-en-Champagne: main road N44 or motorway A4 towards Reims, then towards the city centre
Localisation
At the intersection of the Strasbourg/Paris and Lille-/Beaune roads
48 km northwest of Châlons-en-Champagne