Palace of Tau travel guide

The Palais du Tau, an architectural gem, has a storied past dating back to the 6th century. Originally serving as a residence for the bishops of Reims, the palace was later reconstructed in the Gothic style during the 13th century.

By the 17th century, the French architect Robert de Cotte transformed it into a classical masterpiece, giving the building its current form. This transformation coincided with its role as the venue for the coronation banquets of French kings, making it an integral part of France's royal heritage.

The name 'Tau' is derived from its T-shaped layout, reminiscent of the Greek letter tau. Today, the Palais du Tau is a UNESCO World Heritage site, housing a museum that showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, including medieval sculptures and the coronation regalia of French monarchs.

Visitors can explore the grand halls, chapels, and the treasure room, all of which offer a glimpse into the opulence and historical significance of this magnificent palace. Whether you're a history enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, the Palais du Tau promises a fascinating journey through time.

One of the most striking features of the Palais du Tau is its impressive collection of medieval treasures, including the original statues and tapestries from the nearby Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral. The palace houses the grand 'Salle du Tau,' a vast hall where banquets were held following the coronation of French kings, adorned with intricate Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements.

Another distinctive aspect is the Chapel of the Holy Relics, which contains an array of precious relics and religious artifacts, notably the talisman of Charlemagne. The palace also boasts a magnificent array of coronation regalia, including royal vestments and the celebrated 'Talisman of Charlemagne,' a jewel-encrusted piece believed to have been worn by the emperor himself.

The architectural blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles is another element that sets Palais du Tau apart. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings, vaulted ceilings, and grand staircases that exemplify the evolution of French royal architecture. Additionally, the palace's gardens offer a serene escape, with beautifully manicured landscapes that provide a picturesque backdrop to this historic site.

Palais du Tau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, but did you know it's named after its T-shaped layout? This palace was historically the residence of French kings during their coronation ceremonies at the adjacent Reims Cathedral. An intriguing feature is the 'Salle du Tau,' where the coronation banquets were held, displaying tapestries depicting the life of Clovis I. The palace also houses the Holy Ampulla, containing the sacred oil used to anoint kings. Another lesser-known gem is the 'Salle des Tauroboles,' showcasing ancient Roman artifacts discovered in Reims. Furthermore, the palace's treasury includes the Talisman of Charlemagne, a remarkable 9th-century relic.

Located in the dynamic Reims, the popular Palace of Tau is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Reims or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Reims is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Reims offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Reims and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Place Drouet d'Erlon, Parc Léo Lagrange, Parc de Champagne, and Basilique Saint-Remi.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Reims has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Reims, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

The best time to explore Palais du Tau in Reims, France, is during the late spring and early autumn months of May, June, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is comfortably mild, and the gardens are in full bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit. Crowds are generally smaller compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience as you wander through the historic halls and rooms of this former archbishop's palace.

Visiting during these months also coincides with fewer tourists, meaning shorter lines and a more leisurely pace to enjoy the architectural grandeur and historical artifacts on display. Additionally, special events and temporary exhibits often take place in these shoulder seasons, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to your visit. For those interested in local culture, the city of Reims, known for its champagne, hosts various harvest festivals in September, making it an excellent time to enjoy both the Palais du Tau and the surrounding region's festivities.

Winter can be a quieter time to visit, with the palace adorned in festive decorations, although it may be colder. Regardless of the season, planning your visit around these optimal times ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience at Palais du Tau.

Palace of Tau is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Reims, France. If you're flying in, Châlons Vatry Airport is approximately 34.1 miles (54.8 km) away from Reims. From there, you can easily reach Palace of Tau by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Reims, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Palace of Tau, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Palace of Tau, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 2 Pl. Du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Palace of Tau!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Palace of Tau and other top attractions in Reims than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Reims include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Palace of Tau's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Palace of Tau and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind museum in France.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Palace of Tau and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Châlons Vatry Airport and the city of Reims, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Reims and beyond.

Conveniently explore Palace of Tau and plenty more captivating attractions in Reims by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Palace of Tau and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Reims has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Palace of Tau below.

Aside from Palace of Tau, Reims is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Reims, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Place Drouet d'Erlon, and Parc Léo Lagrange.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Reims, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is Pl. Du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Reims is Place Drouet d'Erlon. Like Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 4,600 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Pl. Drouet d'Erlon, 51100 Reims, France.

Parc Léo Lagrange is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Reims. This park and top attraction in Reims has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 58 Chau. Bocquaine, 51100 Reims, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Reims below.