Durocortorum, the oppidum the Gallic Remes tribe built in the early 1st century AD, grew to become Reims. The Remes’ good fortune was due to the fact that they didn’t join the Gallic rebellion during the Gallic War, but took side with the Roman Empire. In return for their support, the Romans made Durocortorum a federated city and awarded it its independence. It also became the capital of the Gallia Belgica, one of the three provinces the Romans created in Gaul after the conquest. A thick stone wall encompassed the city during the 3rd century barbarian invasions.

The Porte de Mars, is an ancient triumphal arch built in the third century AD, and stands as a testament to when the Romans introduced major roads to Reims. Named after a temple of Mars that stood nearby, this majestic arch stretched 13 meters in height and 32 meters in length, proudly bearing the title of the widest arch of the Roman era. Initially, other buildings accompanied the arch, but come 1817, they were cleared away, revealing the solitary structure we see today.

The Cryptoporticus in Reims is an ancient underground gallery or passageway, dating back to the third century AD. Constructed by the Romans, this structure originally supported the forum, which was the central public space in the city. It consists of three parallel vaulted galleries and was used for various purposes over time, including storage. Located near the city’s cathedral, the Cryptoporticus offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of Reims and the architectural practices of the Roman era. Today, it stands as one of the city’s important archaeological sites and a testament to its Roman heritage.

The third among Reims’ quartet of UNESCO heritage sites, this ancient abbey takes us on a journey to the 11th century. It was erected on the grounds of a former chapel, the final resting place of Saint Remigius. This notable Bishop of Reims is celebrated for baptizing King Clovis, a transformative moment in French Christian history. Pope Leo IX consecrated this abbey in 1049.

The architectural marvel, as we see it today, is a blend of the original structure and subsequent additions spanning from the 12th to the 19th centuries. It stands as Northern France’s grandest Romanesque church. The abbey’s exterior and interior weave together a tapestry of diverse architectural styles. Once inside, visitors are greeted by a grand aisle, an elongated spectacle stretching almost 400 feet, yet maintaining a width of just 85 feet. This harmonious blend of scale and proportion leaves a lasting impression.

Right next to Notre Dame de Reims stands the Palace of Tau. Its name, derived from its T-shape reminiscent of the Greek letter “tau”, signifies its historical importance. Traditionally, this bishop’s palace served as the residence for the kings of France before their coronation events in the adjacent cathedral. Here, in the palace’s grand rooms, they would dress and ready themselves for the elaborate coronation ceremonies.

Today, the palace has transformed into a captivating museum, housing a collection of artefacts related to the cathedral and the numerous coronations it witnessed. Moreover, it showcases treasures that narrate the rich history of the champagne region.

Entry to the exhibit costs 8€ for adults. Impressively, those under 18 and individuals with disabilities (along with one accompanying person) can enjoy free admission—a commendable inclusion.

Just a stone’s throw away from the Roman cryptoporticus rests a remarkable 16th-century edifice. This house, with foundations dating back to the 13th century, once belonged to the affluent merchant, Nicolas Le Vergeur. Later, it became the residence of Hugues Krafft, a fervent collector. After his passing, Krafft bequeathed his residence and its extensive collection to the Association of the Friends of Old Reims.

Visually, the building itself is a treat for architecture enthusiasts. It showcases fascinating historical design elements, from its imposing indoor fireplace to its half-timbered external framework. Its gardens, meticulously maintained, further enhance its allure, making a visit to this place deeply rewarding even before stepping inside.

The interior, however, elevates the experience to another level. Visitors are presented with a treasure trove of artifacts. Notable among them are the original sketches by the famed artist Albrecht Durer and an exquisite collection of Meissen porcelain. The house-museum also showcases a diverse array of art pieces, interwoven with gothic furnishings, ensuring that visitors are engrossed for hours, exploring and absorbing its rich history and artistic splendor.

Next on our journey is a seemingly ordinary educational structure, presently recognized as Lycee Roosevelt. However, its past resonates with historical significance. In 1945, it bore the title ‘le College Moderne et Technique de Reims’, and against all expectations, it played an integral role in global history. On the dawn of May 7th, 1945, within a room on its second floor, the pivotal treaty ending World War II was inked.

During this period, this edifice served as the base for SHAEF – the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force, under the leadership of General Eisenhower. Following Adolf Hitler’s demise on April 30, leadership transitioned to Admiral Karl Donitz. Accompanying Generaloberst Alfred Jodl, the Wehrmacht’s commander, Donitz witnessed the historic treaty’s signing, culminating the war.

Today, adjacent to the school is the Musée de la Reddition, a humble museum. It invites visitors to explore myriad war artifacts and step into the treaty room, preserved in its original state post-signing. Our experience here was brief yet profoundly memorable.

The museum charges a nominal fee of 5€ for entry. Concessions are available for young visitors below 18 and seniors over 65. Echoing the Palace of Tau’s inclusivity, persons with disabilities and their companion are granted free admission.

Our walking tour culminates near the heart of the city, in proximity to the cathedral and bustling city center. Throughout our journey today, we’ve traced how Reims bore the brunt of the destruction during WWI. In the aftermath of the war, Andrew Carnegie, the esteemed American industrialist and philanthropist, set up the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. This initiative targeted three “front line” European cities that were particularly ravaged by the war, offering them the means to construct new, or revamp existing, libraries. France’s chosen “front line” city was none other than Reims, and by 1927, the city showcased a splendid new library.

The Carnegie Library of Reims, designed in the striking Art Deco style, is certainly worth a leisurely walk-by, or better yet, a venture inside if time permits. Its architecture is a testament to the resilience of humanity and our ability to rise from the ashes of calamity.

While entrance to the library is complimentary, those keen on an in-depth experience can opt for guided tours at a nominal fee.