Reims

Reims or Rheims, city in north-east France, in the Marne Department, on the Vesle River in Champagne-Ardenne. The city is the world centre for the production of champagne. Other products include textiles, aerospace equipment, and processed food. The chief landmark in Reims is the cathedral of Notre Dame (13th century, restored after suffering heavy damage in World War I), one of the finest Gothic buildings in France and, together with the nearby Tau Palace, a former archiepiscopal residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. Other points of interest include the church of St-Rémi (begun 11th century, also on the World Heritage list), a Roman triumphal arch (3rd century ad), and the St-Denis Museum, containing a fine collection of French painting. The University of Reims (1969) is in the city.

Reims is built on the site of Durocortorum, the capital of the Remi, an ancient Gallic tribe. Christianity was established in the city by the 3rd century ad. In the 8th century Reims became the seat of an archbishopric, and from the 12th to the 19th century, it was the traditional coronation site of the kings of France. During World War I Reims was bombed by the Germans, resulting in partial destruction of the cathedral, which was repaired with the help of a large donation by the American philanthropist John D. Rockefeller. On May 7, 1945, in World War II, the city was the site of the signing of the surrender of the German armies. Population 184,800 (2005 estimate).