Reims

Live Sparkling Moments

Reims is a city of the Champagne-Ardenne region of northern France, located 89 miles east-northeast of Paris. It was originally founded during the period of the Roman Empire. Reims played a very important role in French history, as it was the place where the kings of France were crowned. The most famous and cherished of these events was the coronation of Charles VII in the company of Joan of Arc. Thus, the Cathedral of Reims (damaged by the Germans during the First World War but restored since) played the same role in France as Westminster Abbey did in England. It was there that was kept the Holy Ampulla (Sainte Ampoule) containing the Saint Chrême (chrism), which was said to have been brought by a white dove (the Holy Spirit) at the baptism of Clovis in 496, and was used for the anointing, the most important part of the coronation of French kings. 

Reims, the largest city in the Champagne-Ardenne region,  is often considered the capital of Champagne. This old province of France is world-famous for its sparkling wine (Champagne).

 

Top Attractions: 

  • Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims 
  • The Palace of Tau (Archbishops’ Palace) 
  • Saint-Remi Basilica 
  • Musée des Beaux Arts 
  • Saint-Rémi History Museum 
  • Hôtel Le Vergeur Museum 
  • Foujita Chapel  
  • World War II Museum 
  • Visit a Champagne House 

Mayor: Arnaud Robinet

Population: 182,000

Location: The city lies 129 km (80 mi) northeast of Paris on the Vesle river, a tributary of the Aisne.

More Information: Tourist Office of Grand Reims

20 years of Reims-Arlington Sister City Connections!

In 2024 and 2025, Arlington and Reims celebrated 20 years of sister city partnership! 

To read more about the history of the Reims-Arlington Sister City relationship, see our history timeline. 

Kevin Newak, President of the Reims Committee (2023-2025) and Daphne Lathouras, Chair of the ASCA Board, at the 2024 Nov. Anniversary Dinner for the Reims-Arlington Partnership

Programs & Events

  • High School Pen Pal Exchange Program

  • Middle School Exchange Program (PAUSED)

  • High School Exchange Program (PAUSED)

  • Historic Event Commemoration

  • Educational Programming