Reims, France, is a magical blend of European history and beauty in a small city. This charming place is known for its connection to royalty, Christianity, stunning Gothic architecture, and of course, delicious champagne. It holds a significant place in history as the spot where the defeated Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party surrendered in World War II.
General Dwight Eisenhower, the former president of Columbia, was the one who oversaw the final push into Germany in 1945 and accepted the surrender of the German High Command in Reims. This momentous occasion took place in the early hours of a Wednesday morning in May, with General Alfred Jodl signing on behalf of Germany. The surrender marked the end of the war in Europe and is commemorated every year on May 8 as Victory in Europe (V-E) Day.
Reims Cathedral stands as a Gothic masterpiece, with construction starting in 1211 and completing in just 60 years—a remarkable feat for the time. The city is also famous for being the heart of the Champagne region, where billions worth of bubbly wine is aging in underground caves made of chalk and limestone. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of renowned champagne houses like G.H. Mumm, Taittinger, and Veuve Clicquot, followed by tastings in luxurious lounges.
The history of Reims is intertwined with Christianity and royalty, with the first king of the Franks, Clovis, being baptized a Catholic in the city in 496. The cathedral where this event took place has seen the coronation of 25 French kings throughout history. The region’s wine, known as the ‘wine of kings and the king of wines,’ gained royal favor at coronation banquets and later became synonymous with celebration.
While there’s no concrete evidence that General Eisenhower celebrated the Allied victory with champagne in Reims, a photo shows him smiling at a table with bottles of bubbly. The victory in Europe was a significant moment, signaling the end of the war against Germany, though the fight against Japan in the Pacific continued for three more months. Americans learned the value of democracy and the sacrifices needed to defend it during this period.
Reims, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and delightful champagne, remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of European charm and an insight into pivotal moments in world history.