Reims, city in northeastern France, in Marne Department, on the Vesle River, in Champagne. The city is a major trade and production center for champagne, a famous white sparkling wine; other products include textiles, aerospace equipment, and processed food. The chief landmark in Reims is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame (13th century, restored after suffering heavy damage in World War I), considered one of the finest Gothic structures in France. Other points of interest include the Church of St-Rémi (begun 11th century), a Roman triumphal arch (3rd century AD), and the Saint-Denis Museum, containing a notable collection of French painting. The University of Reims (1969) is in the city.
Reims is built on the site of Durocortorum, the capital of the Remi, an ancient people of Gaul. Christianity was established in the city by the 3rd century AD. In the 8th century Reims became the seat of an archbishopric, and from the 12th to the 19th century, it was the traditional coronation site for the kings of France. During World War I, Reims was bombed by the Germans, resulting in partial destruction of the cathedral, which was repaired with the help of a large donation by the American philanthropist John D. Rockefeller. On May 7, 1945, in World War II, the city was the site of the signing of the surrender of the German armies. Population (1999) 187,206.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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