Reims Facts

The Champagne and Brie regions cover several departments of France, among them the Seine-et-Marne-where the Seine and the Marne rivers converge on part of the Brie Region, and the Marne, Haute-Marne, Aube and Ardenne parts of the Champagne region. The first region is famous all over the world for its Champagne including such big names as Möet-et-Chandon, Mumm, and Veuve Cliquot. The second one, also known as France's breadbasket, is famous for its cheeses. Besides their earthly delights, these two rural lands have numerous architectural and historical treasures to offer. The Seine-et-Marne has recently undergone a sort of revival which is owed in large part to Disneyland Paris's presence in the...

...(pronounced "rahns"), an ancient Roman city, was important when Caesar conquered Gaul. French kings came here to be crowned, and it's said that the French nation was born here in A.D. 498. Joan of Arc escorted Charles VII here in 1429, kissing the silly man's feet. But don't let its ancient background mislead you: As you approach Reims, you'll pass through prefabricated suburbs that look like eastern European apartment-house blocks. There are gems in Reims, including the cathedral, but you must seek them out.

Most visitors come to Reims because it's the center of a winegrowing district; its bubbly is present at celebrations all over the world. The city (pop. 200,000) is filled with swank restaurants,...