Which French cathedral was the traditional coronation site of France’s kings?

Reims Cathedral was the traditional coronation site of France’s kings.

The cathedral, formally the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims, became closely associated with French monarchy because many kings were crowned there. The tradition linked royal legitimacy with the city of Reims and with the Holy Ampulla, the sacred vessel traditionally said to contain the chrism used in coronation ceremonies.

The present Gothic cathedral was begun in 1211 after an earlier building was damaged by fire. Its architecture, sculpture, and extensive stained glass made it a major monument of French Gothic art. The cathedral was badly damaged during World War I, when shelling caused fires and destroyed much of the roof. A long restoration campaign followed.

Not every French king was crowned at Reims, so “all French kings” would be inaccurate. The best-known exception is Henry IV, who was crowned at Chartres in 1594. Reims Cathedral is also associated with Joan of Arc, who helped Charles VII reach Reims for his coronation in 1429.