Palais du Tau
Former palace of the archbishops of Reims, linked to the coronations of the kings of France, closed for renovation and announced as the Musée des Sacres for 2027.
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About the museum
The Palais du Tau was the former residence of the archbishops of Reims, beside Reims Cathedral. Its name comes from the T shape formed by two buildings until the 17th century. For a long time it hosted the kings who came to be crowned: coronation ceremonies took place in Reims from 816, under Louis the Pious, until the coronation of Charles X in 1825.
The state acquired the palace in 1905. It was severely damaged by bombing during the First World War and then restored. It reopened in 1972 as the museum of the cathedral and of the coronations of the kings of France, where in particular the coronation treasure was kept.
Since 2022 the Centre des monuments nationaux has been carrying out a major restoration project. It includes repairs to the building and some collections, restoration of the palatine chapel and a complete redesign of the visitor route. The new route is to present the coronations chronologically and thematically, with immersive digital displays.
The palace is closed to the public during the works. According to tourism sources from 2026, it is due to reopen in 2027 under the name Musée des Sacres des rois de France; the exact date has not been confirmed.
Highlights
- Former residence of the archbishops next to Reims Cathedral
- History of the coronations of the kings of France from 816 to 1825
- Chalice of Saint Remigius and reliquary of the Sainte Ampoule
- Coronation mantle of Charles X
- Palatine chapel, currently under restoration
- Operated by
- Centre des monuments nationaux
- Visitors per year
- approx. 97,280
Admission & discounts
The palace is closed for renovation; reopening is announced for 2027.
Accessibility
The palace is closed for renovation; reopening is announced for 2027.
Kids & families
The palace is closed for renovation; reopening is announced for 2027.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Opéra
Tram line A or B to the Opéra stop; several bus lines serve the cathedral district.
The palace is next to Reims Cathedral, about a fifteen-minute walk from Reims station.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The palace is closed for renovation; reopening is announced for 2027.
Events & venue rental
The palace is closed for renovation; reopening is announced for 2027.
