In the Champagne department, Reims is nicknamed “Coronation City”, or “Kings’ City”. Indeed, Clovis, first king of France, was baptised by Saint Rémi in the future spot of the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Reims. Many kings of France were coronated there, during more than ten centuries.
Besides the cathedral, Reims’ heritage is important: there are many historical monuments and Art Déco facades. Thanks to its cultural events, Reims was designated “Town of Art and History”.
Champagne was invented in the 17th century by Dom Pérignon, in the monastery of Hautvilliers, near Epernay. It is one of the main assets of the economy of Reims. Many champagne houses are opened to visit in Reims, to make you discover how champagne is made.
The biscuit rose (pink biscuit) is one of the emblems of Reims. Its creation can be situated in 1691, when a baker decided to bake dough twice. It is flavoured with vanilla, the pink colour comes from carmine, that is used to hide vanilla pods. Tradition wants it dipped in champagne.
The official website from city of Reims
Tourist office of Reims
6 rue Rockefeller
51100 Reims
Tél. +33(0)3 26 77 45 00