Cryptoportique: Reims' Roman Underground

4.3 (901)

Explore Reims' Cryptoportique, a remarkably preserved Roman underground gallery beneath Place du Forum, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past.

Home
France
Reims
Cryptoportique

Descend beneath Place du Forum to explore the Cryptoportique, a remarkably preserved Gallo-Roman structure dating back to the 3rd century AD. These semi-subterranean galleries once formed the foundation of the Roman forum, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past.

A brief summary to Cryptoportique

6 Pl. du Forum, Reims, 51100, FR
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 2 pm-6 pm
Tuesday 2 pm-6 pm
Wednesday 2 pm-6 pm
Thursday 2 pm-6 pm
Friday 2 pm-6 pm
Saturday 2 pm-6 pm
Sunday 2 pm-6 pm

Local tips

Visit during the week for a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.
Check for special exhibitions or events that may be taking place during your visit.
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Reims Cathedral and Place Royale.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Plaque du cinquième centaine du sacre de Charles VII par Jeanne d'Arc

Plaque of the Fifth Centenary of Charles VII's Coronation by Joan of Arc

Place Royale

Place Royale: A Royal Gem in Reims

Musée-Hôtel Le Vergeur

Musée-Hôtel Le Vergeur: A Glimpse into Reims' Past

Getting There

Walking

The Cryptoportique is located on Place du Forum in the heart of Reims, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, walk southwest along Rue du Cardinal Luçon, then turn left onto Place Royale. Continue onto Rue Colbert, then turn right onto Place du Forum. The entrance to the Cryptoportique will be on your right. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

If arriving at Reims Centre station, take the tram or bus to the 'Royale' stop. From there, walk onto Rue Colbert, then turn right onto Place du Forum. The Cryptoportique will be on your right. A single journey on the tram or bus costs €2.
Parking

If driving, parking is available at Parking Forum Elus and Parking Forum Pluche on Place du Forum. As of July 2025, parking rates start with 35 minutes free, then €1 for 1 hour, €2 for 1.5 hours, and increasing incrementally. Be aware that traffic and parking restrictions may be in place due to ongoing works.

Discover more about Cryptoportique

The Cryptoportique in Reims is a captivating journey into the city's Roman past. Located beneath the Place du Forum, this semi-subterranean arched passageway dates back to the 3rd century AD when Reims was known as Durocortorum. The cryptoporticus was likely one of three such passageways surrounding the forum. Cryptoporticoes were underground vaulted structures used as passageways or cool storage areas. The Reims Cryptoportique is remarkably well-preserved. The structure consists of three parallel galleries, each approximately 70 meters long, interconnected by smaller passageways. The vaulted ceilings and sturdy columns showcase the skill of ancient Roman builders. Rediscovered in 1830 during the construction of a new market hall, the Cryptoportique was restored in 1930. Today, visitors can explore the remaining galleries and appreciate this unique historical site. Information panels in multiple languages enhance the experience. The Cryptoportique also hosts temporary exhibitions.

Explore the best of what Cryptoportique has to offer

More about Reims

File:Reims Cathedral, Side View (from Palace Tau).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Discover Reims, a city where history meets luxury, and where the world’s finest champagnes are born. Explore Gothic cathedrals, royal palaces, and taste the essence of France.

Tell me more about Reims

Discover the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers, the spiritual home of champagne, where Dom Pérignon perfected his craft and shaped the world's most celebrated sparkling wine in the heart of the Champagne region.

A tribute to Joan of Arc's courage and French heritage, marking a pivotal moment in history in the heart of Reims.