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Basilique Sainte-Clotilde: A Neo-Byzantine Gem in Reims

Discover the Basilique Sainte-Clotilde in Reims: a stunning Neo-Byzantine basilica with a rich history and impressive collection of French relics.

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Basilique Sainte-Clotilde, located in Reims, France, is a stunning Neo-Byzantine basilica built in the late 19th century. Dedicated to Saint Clotilde, the wife of King Clovis, it houses a crypt with over 2,000 relics of French saints and offers a serene space for reflection.

A brief summary to Basilique Sainte-Clotilde

Local tips

  • Visit during July or August on a Sunday afternoon to explore the basilica's interior and crypt.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the basilica's history, architecture, and the significance of its relics.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Reims city center, such as the Reims Cathedral, the Basilique Sainte-Clotilde is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Head north-west from the cathedral, following the main streets. The basilica is located in the Sainte-Anne neighborhood.

  • Public Transport

    The Grand Reims Mobilités network provides bus and tram services in Reims. Check the local routes and schedules to find the most convenient option from your location to the Basilique Sainte-Clotilde. A single fare costs approximately €1.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Reims. A taxi ride from the city center to the Basilique Sainte-Clotilde will take around 10 minutes and cost approximately €11.40. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Basilique Sainte-Clotilde

The Basilique Sainte-Clotilde, nestled in the Sainte-Anne neighborhood of Reims, stands as a testament to Neo-Byzantine architecture and a tribute to France's Christian heritage. Constructed between 1896 and 1905, the basilica commemorates the 14th centenary of the baptism of King Clovis, the first King of the Franks to convert to Christianity. The basilica was designed by Alphonse Gosset, drawing inspiration from the Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome and the Saint-Augustin Church in Paris. The basilica's design features a Greek cross layout, topped with an elegant dome, and reflects the architectural style prevalent in the Byzantine Empire. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows and sculptures. The crypt houses over 2,000 religious relics of French saints, displayed in 120 reliquaries. These relics were gathered from dioceses across France at the request of Cardinal Benoît-Marie Langénieux, the Archbishop of Reims, who envisioned the basilica as a shrine for the saints of France. Visitors can explore the basilica's rich history and admire its architectural details. The play of light through the stained-glass windows creates a spiritual atmosphere, while the sheer number of relics in the crypt offers a glimpse into France's religious past. The basilica is open to visitors on Sundays during July and August and during the Heritage Days.

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