Old Church of Saint-Nicaise De Reims

Introduction

The Old Church of Saint-Nicaise de Reims stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s layered history, religious devotion, and artistic achievement. From its origins as a 4th-century burial site to its transformation into a medieval Gothic landmark and, ultimately, its 20th-century revival, Saint-Nicaise offers visitors a profound journey through the spiritual and cultural heart of Reims. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into the church’s history, architectural evolution, visitor information, and practical tips for exploring both the original site and its modern successor, ensuring a rewarding experience for all travelers.

Early Foundations and Historical Significance

The origins of the Old Church of Saint-Nicaise trace back to the 4th century, when it was established as the Church of Saint-Agricole-et-Saint-Vital. By the 5th century, it became the burial site for Saint Nicaise, then Bishop of Reims, whose martyrdom cemented the church’s status as an important religious center. Over the centuries, the site evolved, with a Benedictine abbey founded in 1060 to accommodate increasing numbers of pilgrims (Wikipedia).

Gothic Masterpiece: Construction and Expansion

In the 13th century, under the direction of Hugues Libergier and later Robert de Coucy, the abbey church was rebuilt and expanded, becoming a celebrated example of Gothic architecture known as the “Sainte Chapelle de Reims.” Distinguished by its ribbed vaults, twin towers, and expansive rose window, it stood as one of the largest and most beautiful churches in France (Wikipedia). Its interior was adorned with intricate pavements, stained glass, and sculptures, reflecting the abbey’s wealth and spiritual significance.

Decline, Destruction, and Surviving Vestiges

The Old Church of Saint-Nicaise suffered heavily during the French Revolution. In 1793, it was destroyed, its treasures dispersed, and its stones repurposed in local construction. Today, the site is marked by Place Saint-Nicaise, while remnants of the abbey’s chalk cellars are preserved and can be visited as part of Maison de Champagne Taittinger’s guided tours (Maison de Champagne Taittinger). Surviving artifacts are displayed in the Reims Cathedral, Basilica of Saint-Remi, and Musée Saint-Remi (Reims Histoire Archéologie).

Modern Église Saint-Nicaise: Architecture and Art

Architectural Style

Rebuilt in the early 20th century in the Cité-Jardin du Chemin-Vert district, the new Église Saint-Nicaise exemplifies Romanesque-Byzantine revival architecture. Designed by Jean-Marcel Auburtin, the church features a Greek cross plan and is constructed using reinforced concrete, a modern innovation of the era (Wikipedia; Explore Grand Est).

Artistic Program and Decorative Elements

The church is renowned for its collaboration with leading artists:

• René Lalique: Molded glass windows, depicting angels, create a luminous, ethereal atmosphere (Reims Tourisme).
• Maurice Denis & Gustave Jaulmes: Murals and frescoes bring narrative depth and color to the sanctuary.
• Roger de Villiers & Emma Thiollier: Sculptures, including statues of Saint Nicaise and Joan of Arc, enrich the church’s spiritual ambiance.
• Jean Berque: Innovative Stations of the Cross, executed on fiber cement panels.

The church also houses a carillon of thirty-five bells and a restored organ, enhancing its role as a center for liturgical music and cultural events (Wikipedia).

Heritage Status

The modern church was designated a Monument Historique in 2002 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage “Coteaux, Maisons et Caves de Champagne” (Reims Tourisme; Champagne Patrimoine Mondial).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Maison de Champagne Taittinger (Cellar Tours)

• Location: Saint-Nicaise mound, southern Reims.
• Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, last tour at 5:00 PM. Closed on major holidays (Maison de Champagne Taittinger).
• Tickets: €20–€40, including champagne tastings. Booking online is recommended.
• Accessibility: Cellars include stairs and uneven surfaces; limited wheelchair access.

Modern Église Saint-Nicaise

• Location: 8, rue Lanson, 51100 Reims.
• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday services at 10:30 AM.
• Tickets: Free entry; guided tours by arrangement via Reims Tourisme.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with step-free interpretation room.

Old Church Site (Place Saint-Nicaise)

• Access: Public square, open year-round with interpretive signage.
• Admission: Free.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

• Reims Cathedral: Iconic Gothic landmark and UNESCO site.
• Palais du Tau: Former archbishop’s palace, now a museum.
• Basilica of Saint-Remi: Romanesque basilica with significant relics.
• Maison de Champagne Pommery, Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot: Tour the famous chalk “crayères” cellars (Champagne Patrimoine Mondial).

Travel Tips:

• Use the Reims City Pass for free transportation and museum discounts (The Good Life France).
• Public transport and walking are ideal for exploring the compact city.
• Spring and early autumn are optimal times for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
• For local dining, try Café du Palais.

Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photography

• Guided Tours: Available at Maison Taittinger and by request at Église Saint-Nicaise. Special heritage events may offer deeper insights (Reims Tourisme).
• Photography: Permitted in most areas; avoid flash and be respectful during services.
• Events: Concerts and exhibitions are regularly hosted—see the Friends of Saint-Nicaise Church for current listings.

Practical Recommendations and FAQs

Tips for Your Visit

• Dress modestly and maintain silence during services.
• Facilities at the church are basic; public restrooms and cafés are found nearby.
• For group visits or special access, arrange in advance with the tourist office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need tickets to visit the Old Church of Saint-Nicaise?
A: The site at Place Saint-Nicaise and the modern church are free to enter, but guided tours and cellar visits at Maison Taittinger require tickets (Maison de Champagne Taittinger).

Q: Are the sites accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The modern church is wheelchair accessible; the cellars have limited access.

Q: What is the best way to get to Saint-Nicaise?
A: Use public transport or walk from Reims city center. Parking is available but limited.

Visuals and Media

• Exterior and interior images of Saint-Nicaise (alt: “Saint-Nicaise de Reims church exterior Romanesque-Byzantine architecture”)
• Lalique’s molded glass windows (alt: “René Lalique glass windows Saint-Nicaise de Reims church”)
• Murals by Maurice Denis and Gustave Jaulmes (alt: “Maurice Denis mural Saint-Nicaise Reims”)
• Sculptures by Roger de Villiers and Emma Thiollier
• Map highlighting church location and nearby attractions

Related Articles

• Discover the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims: History and Visiting Information
• Exploring the Saint-Remi Basilica: A Guide to Reims’ Religious Heritage
• Walking Tours of Reims: Combining Historical Sites and Champagne Experiences

Essential Contacts

• Reims Tourist Office: 6, rue Rockefeller, 51000 Reims; Tel. +33 3 26 77 45 00; www.reims-tourisme.com
• Champagne Patrimoine Mondial: Contact page