Landmarks in Champagne crayeuse

Editor's Choice

This selection highlights the UNESCO-listed architectural and viticultural heritage of the Champagne region. It focuses on the 13th-century Reims Cathedral, the traditional site of French royal coronations, and the Abbey of Saint-Remi. The list also features the historic 'crayères'—ancient Gallo-Roman chalk pits repurposed as champagne cellars—and the broader cultural landscape where the traditional sparkling wine method was developed and commercialized.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame et Palais du Tau

13th-century Gothic cathedral where French kings were crowned. The adjacent Palais du Tau, formerly the archbishop's residence, houses the cathedral's treasury and original monumental sculptures.

G.Garitan / CC BY-SA 3.0

Ancienne Abbaye Saint-Remi

Former 11th-century Benedictine abbey and basilica housing the tomb of Saint Remi. The site historically preserved the holy ampulla used for the anointing of French monarchs during coronation ceremonies.

Yaromur / CC BY-SA 4.0

Notre-Dame-en-Vaux

The Notre-Dame-en-Vaux is a Roman Catholic church located in Châlons-en-Champagne. The cathedral is a major masterpiece in Marne.

Caves Taittinger - souterrain

Underground cellars situated in 4th-century Gallo-Roman chalk pits. These 'crayères' maintain a constant temperature, providing the ideal environment for aging champagne at depths of up to 18 meters.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame, ancienne abbaye Saint-Remi et palais du Tau, Reims

A UNESCO World Heritage ensemble comprising the coronation cathedral, the 11th-century Saint-Remi Abbey, and the Palais du Tau. These sites illustrate the historical power of the French monarchy.

Coteaux, Maisons et Caves de Champagne

UNESCO-protected landscape encompassing historic vineyards, production sites, and underground cellars. It marks the birthplace of the traditional sparkling wine method and its global commercial development.

Pont-canal enjambant la Seine

A 19th-century masonry aqueduct bridge that carries the Canal de la Haute-Seine over the Seine river. It represents a significant feat of 19th-century hydraulic engineering.