Maybe you’ve seen one before: a labyrinth on the floor of a big cathedral, like in Chartres and Amiens. But did you know that the cathedral of Reims used to have a labyrinth too? In this article, you’ll read about 5 things you didn’t know about the lost labyrinth of Reims cathedral.
#1 - A labyrinth served as medieval yoga
A labyrinth in a cathedral (like Reims, Chartres or Amiens) served as a kind of meditation path for pilgrims and believers who came to the cathedral. It was meant to help the pilgrims concentrate on their faith and prayer while they walked through the labyrinth, on their feet or sometimes even on their knees. The pattern of the labyrinth often symbolized the search for the heart of God or the center of the world.
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#2 - Tribute to the Master Stonecutters of Reims
In 1286, the labyrinth in the cathedral of Reims was ready. And what a sight it must have been: the diameter was approximately 11 meters. For the construction, specially-sourced dark blue natural stone was brought from the Ardennes.
A number of figures were depicted in the labyrinth. Fortunately, we know who they represent because research was done just before its destruction. They are the client, the archbishop of Reims, and the master stonecutters who worked on the construction of the cathedral.
- The person in the center is probably Aubry de Humbert, the archbishop of Reims. He decided in 1211 to build the cathedral on the site where the previous one had burned down in 1210.
- Right above: Jean Orbais, who worked on the construction plans and the apse.
- Left above: Jean-le-Loup, who started the northern portal.
- Left below: Gaucher de Reims, who mainly worked on the western façade.
- Right below: Bernard de Soissons, who did important work for the ship and the great rose window.
#3 - The Labyrinth of Reims Cathedral Was Destroyed Because Children Were Playing In It
Unfortunately, the labyrinth of Reims was destroyed in 1779. Not by wild revolutionaries, but by the canons of the cathedral itself. They could no longer stand the fact that children were playing in the labyrinth during mass. The labyrinth was therefore dismantled 🙁
#4 - The Labyrinth is Back, But Not Made of Stone
There has often been debate about the rebuilding of the monument. This brought many (practical) problems with it. Therefore, a smart solution was chosen: since 2009, a light projector has been used to project the labyrinth, precisely on the spot where it used to be located. If you want to see it, you have to come in the evening, and only during cultural events.
#5 - The "Monuments historiques" Logo Refers to the Labyrinth of Reims Cathedral
The lost labyrinth of the cathedral of Reims is an important part of French history and cultural heritage. Although it is no longer physically present, it remains an inspiration for artists and historians. It is also reflected in the logo of “Monuments historiques”. The stylized letters “MH” depict the path of the labyrinth, symbolizing the search for cultural treasures.
What is your favorite labyrinth and why? Leave it in the comments!
