Saint Remi Basilica, about a mile from the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Reims, takes its name from the fifth-century Saint Remi, revered as the patron saint of the inhabitants of Reims for more than fifteen centuries. The basilica approaches the cathedral in size. Adjacent to the basilica stands an important abbey, formerly known as the Royal Abbey of St Remi. The abbey sought to trace its heritage back to St Remi, while the present abbey building dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The Saint Remi Basilica dates from the 11th, 12th, 13th and 15th centuries. Most of the construction of the church finished in the 11th century, with additions made later. The nave and transepts, Gothic in style, date mainly from the earliest, the façade of the south transept from the latest of those periods, the choir and apse chapels from the 12th and 13th centuries. The 17th and 19th centuries saw further additions. The building suffered greatly in World War I, and the meticulous restoration work of architect Henri Deneux rebuilt it from its ruins over the following 40 years. As of 2009 it remains the seat of an active Catholic parish holding regular worship services and welcoming pilgrims. It has been classified as an historical monument since 1841 and is one of the pinnacles of the history of art and of the...
Read moreBasilique Saint-Remi is one of Reims’ most captivating historical sites. The Romanesque architecture, with its graceful arches and serene atmosphere, offers a striking contrast to the nearby Gothic grandeur of Reims Cathedral. The basilica houses the tomb of Saint Remi, who baptized Clovis, the first King of the Franks, making it a place of deep historical and religious significance.
Inside, the stained glass windows fill the church with a soft, colorful light, and the intricate stonework reveals centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. The adjoining museum provides fascinating insights into the basilica’s history and artifacts.
Overall, Basilique Saint-Remi is a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience in Reims.
PS. Free entry but a...
Read moreAfter kicking off our day trip to the Champagne region, we started our tour at the magnificent Basilica of Saint-Remi. Stepping inside felt like a real-life time machine, transporting us to a peaceful, ancient world. The atmosphere was so calm and serene, it was the perfect place to start our day and escape the hustle and bustle.
An impressive fact about this place is that it's the final resting place of Saint Remi, the guy who baptized the very first King of the Franks! Talk about a pivotal moment in French history!
The basilica isn't just a building; it's a super cool piece of the past that sets the stage for a day of amazing...
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