Cathedral of Reims (France)

I know, it’s already Easter, this year in very special circumstances with this confinement because of Covid 19, which paralyses almost the entire planet.

Last week, we went around the world (read Friendship again), this time I'm going to show you one of the emblematic cathedrals of France: Reims.

Reims, even if known for its champagne, it’s more visited for its cathedral, which has been associated with this city for centuries.

Built in the 13th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, its majestic Gothic stature impresses with its 2,300 statues.
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This Roman Catholic cathedral has been listed as Unesco World Heritage since 1991.

It was the place of coronation of the Kings of France until 1825, and it’s as impressive as Notre Dame de Paris, with its 2 facade towers reaching 266ft or 81.50m (226ft or 69m for Paris) and the height of the Nave under vault is 125ft or 38m (108ft or 33m for Notre Dame de Paris).

In addition, it innovates with frame windows called "rémoise window" (window of Reims), made of a rose above 2 lancets.

It has retained many original stained-glass windows, but it has also been enriched with contemporary stained-glass windows made by renowned artists such as Marc Chagall.

 
You’ve certainly noticed Joan of Arc in the Cathedral, she’s strongly linked to it, since in 1429, she accompanied Charles VII to be crowned King.

She’s celebrated during a festival, every year at the beginning of June, with many shows, music, dance, workshops, a medieval village and a parade on the last day.

​But there’s a visit I particularly like, the access of the cathedral’s roof!

Don't be afraid of the 249 steps to climb, or the heights, but it's worth it: the city’s view is breathtaking.

You can also admire the many details of its facade and structure, as well as its lead roof.

This cathedral was severely damaged during the First World War, during the German bombardments, a fire completely ravaged the wooden frame in 1914. In 1920, it was finally rebuilt in reinforced concrete, including John D. Rockefeller Junior as one of the sponsors (yes yes, the Rockefeller family from New York, reread Rockefeller Center).

And during this period, read again my article Chocolate, to succumb without feeling guilty…
 
Happy Easter everyone!

​Love & Joy
L.