Cryptoporticus

You are standing on Forum Square., it was the most important place in the city during Roman era, as it was here that the inhabitants met to deal with political, commercial, economic and judicial matters. After Antiquity, it became the Market Square – a covered market was even built here in 1840, but it was destroyed during the war. Look around you, a number of Art Deco style houses line the square, as well as the remarkable Le Vergeur hotel-museum, whose gardens you can visit free of charge just a little further along on your left. However, it was renamed Forum square in 1932 and you’ll soon understand why. If I say cryptoportico, does that ring a bell? If it doesn’t, that’s quite logical, as only a dozen or so have been unearthed worldwide! Well, today’s your lucky day: go down the steps in front of you and admire the strange edifice that faces you. Cryptoporticoes are vaulted galleries, mostly underground, dating from the Gallo-Roman period. While their exact purpose is unclear it is widely believed that they were used to store goods. This cryptoportico ig was part of one of the three galleries that ran beneath the forum, and dates back to the 1st century AD. It was first discovered in 1838, during the construction of the covered market, but it wasn’t until the end of World War I that the three U-shaped galleries were brought to light. The East gallery was the only gallery cleared and opened to the public as from 1983. However, it is conceivable that two or more additional wings are buried beneath the ground of Reims. So, what you’re seeing there is indeed a rare gem! . Entrance is free of charge, but subject to opening days and times. If it’s open during your visit, feel free to enter and have z look!