Chef Emmanuel Stroobant takes you on an enchanting journey to Reims Cathedral, a monument that stands as a testament to France’s royal heritage and architectural resilience.

Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Reims, a city right in the heart of the Champagne region. You are surrounded by half-timbered houses and wine cellars. As you turn a corner, the jaw-dropping Reims Cathedral rises before you. With its soaring spires, this Gothic architectural masterpiece is where the sacred and ordinary intertwine.

Astonishing origins
Reims isn’t just a typical stop on a tourist-trap wine tour; it’s the birthplace of French kings. Here, Clovis, the first king of the Franks, was baptised in 496 by Bishop Remigius – who became Saint Remi – along with 3,000 of his men. Picture it: a rugged warrior, suddenly drenched in holy water, leading a battalion of his warriors, all swarming into the river in what can only be described as a chaotic, large-scale splashdown. With that many people, you can bet the bathwater didn’t exactly smell like a day at the spa! This moment also marked a significant shift in the future of the French monarchy and the Church’s grip on power.

Fun fact
The name Clovis is actually the root of the name Louis (just drop the C), which has been the name of several French kings throughout history. Taking over 80 years to build, Reims Cathedral was completed in 1300. This architectural marvel has, however, ensured multiple phases of destruction and reconstruction.

Throughout its history, Reims Cathedral has faced significant damage. It suffered during the Norman invasions in the 9th century, but that was only the beginning. The cathedral was further ruined during the Hundred Years’ War and again in the 16th century during the Wars of Religion. During the French Revolution, many of its statues were destroyed. But most famously, it was heavily bombarded during World War I, leaving huge parts of it in ruins. Yet, with each destruction, the cathedral has always been rebuilt—a testament to its resilience and enduring place in French history.

Hidden details
As you step inside the cathedral, take a moment to admire the gargoyles—those fantastical creatures perched high above, watching over the city like distant relatives at a family reunion. They aren’t just for show; these guardians redirect rainwater away from the walls, preventing water damage to the structure. Some are “plugged” due to the metal melting when the cathedral was set on fire, with the molten metal pooling in the mouths of the gargoyles.

But look closer and you’ll spot the “Angel with a Smile.” This curious figure has become a local icon, known for its mischievous grin and the fact that it’s missing a hand, adding to its intrigue. Legend has it that this angel lost its hand during a particularly intense storm when a mischievous wind swept through and decided it was time for a game. Some say it was an unfortunate mishap, while others believe it’s a sign of the angel’s carefree spirit.

After all, who needs two hands when you’ve got a smile that could light up a room? Visitors often joked that the angel is just too happy to be held back by trivial things like anatomy.

Stained glass: A spectacle of light
It feels incomplete to talk about Reims Cathedral without an appreciation prose about its stained glass windows. As you enter, the grand rose window, depicting the biblical story of David and Goliath, catches your eye. This dramatic scene is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a reminder of the timeless battle between good and evil, beautifully symbolising courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

In addition to these medieval masterpieces, the cathedral welcomed the addition of new stained glass windows by artist Imi Knoebel in 2011. At the cost of a whopping €900,000, these contemporary pieces inject a fresh perspective into the ancient walls. While they are not to everyone’s taste, they create a vibrant dialogue between the past and present.

And let’s not forget the stunning contributions of Marc Chagall, who, in 1974, added his own touch of brilliance to the cathedral’s stained glass. Chagall’s windows are celebrated for their vivid colours and dreamlike motifs, featuring themes of faith, love and heritage. His works stand out like a hipster at a Renaissance fair, a beautiful reminder that art and spirituality can blend seamlessly across generations.

The interplay of light through the stained glass creates a mesmerising atmosphere, encouraging contemplation – or at least a few deep thoughts about how you’re going to order that next glass of champagne. Seriously, it’s hard not to get lost in the beauty of it all.

Where history lives
Reims Cathedral is a living tapestry of stories, legends and crucial moments that have shaped France. Each stone, stained glass window and gargoyle whispers secrets of the past. Strolling through its aisles, you can almost hear the echoes of coronation ceremonies and the laughter of pilgrims who came to witness its grandeur.

So, if you find yourself in the region, spend a couple of hours to visit this amazing cathedral. Stand beneath the soaring arches, admire the intricate details and let the warmth of history wash over you.

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Saint Pierre, led by Chef-Owner Emmanuel Stroobant, is a Two Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant in Singapore. It offers exquisite tasting menus, including a vegetarian option, alongside an exceptional wine list curated by Singapore’s first Master of Wine, Tan Ying Hsien. Located at One Fullerton, Saint Pierre boasts breathtaking views of the Marina Bay Sands skyline, creating an elegant setting for any occasion including refined lunches, intimate celebrations and unparalleled gastronomic experiences.