5th century – the Merovingian Cathedral
The settlement of a tribe of Gauls called the Remes, named Durocortorum, had been recorded by Julius Caesar in his accounts of the See more

• Apse (left), transept (centre), nave and west front (right)
• Plan of the cathedral See more

West façade
The west façade, the entry to the cathedral, particularly glorifies royalty. Most of it was completed at the same time, giving it an unusual unity of style. It is harmonic or balanced, with two towers of equal height and … See more

Interior of west façade
In the interior of the west façade, much of the original glass remains, though it has gone through several restorations. The centre of the west … See more

• c. 250-300 - Saint Sixtus of Reims is recorded as the first bishop of Reims
• 314 -A Cathedral of the Holy Apostles, built by Bishop … See more

Interior of the west wall
One distinctive feature of Reims Cathedral not found in other High Gothic cathedrals is the wall of sculpture on the inside of the west façade. Some of the statues, particularly around the doors, were badly damaged by fire … See more

The episcopal palace, known as the Palace of Tau, adjoins the cathedral on the south side of the apse. It was the residence of the archbishop, and also was the setting for the banquet given in honour of the new kings of France after their coronation. See more