Skip-the-line tickets to Palais du Tau in Reims
With this skip-the-line entrance, you will discover the Palais du Tau, a former residence of the bishops of Reims which has been closely linked to the History of France over the centuries. Founded in the late 4th century, it is a mediaeval palace with the appearance of a fortified house. The monument became known as the Palace of Tau in 1138. The name refers to the Greek letter “Tau”, reflecting the property’s T-shaped layout.
The Palace was the residence of the Kings of France before their coronation in Notre-Dame de Reims known also as "Our Lady of Reims". The King was dressed for the coronation at the palace before proceeding to the cathedral. Afterwards, the coronation banquet was held at the palace.
Today and since 1972, the Palais du Tau is the museum of the work of the adjoining cathedral. The most precious artefacts in the treasury are the remains of the Holy Ampulla, used since the baptism of Clovis in the 5th century, and the 9th-century Talisman of Charlemagne. The Palais du Tau houses original sculptures, a treasure-trove, a part of the cathedral’s tapestry collections and a 13th century chapel, as well as temporary exhibitions during the Christmas holiday period.
The Palais du Tau, along with the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. It attracts today almost 100 000 visitors each year.