Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Reims cryptoportic is a horreum-type underground gallery built around the year 100 in the form of a U, located under the current Forum square. This monument was an integral part of the Roman forum of Durocortorum (Ancient Reims), measuring about 65 meters wide by 250 long. It probably served as a storage place or space related to the economic activities of the forum, located at the intersection of the cardo and the decumanus. Its small-scale walls and tile mortar vault, supported by pillars, housed wooden lodges and colourful stucco decorations. A monumental entrance, with a staircase rotating over an imperial altar, marked its access.

The partial destruction of the cryptoportic dates back to the invasions of the fourth century, when the Roman Empire declined. Despite the reduction of the city and subsequent disorderly urbanisation, the site retained the name of "place du Forum", thus preserving its memory. In the 18th century, the urban rationalization of Reims surrounded this area with the Place Royale and the Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, without altering the remains buried.

The rediscovery of the site took place in 1922, when the old halls of the Market Square were demolished to build the central Halls. The excavations revealed a room 52 metres long, 5.70 metres high, supported by central pillars and lateral alcoves. Some of the remains, located under houses rebuilt after World War I, could not be explored. Columns had already been discovered in 1840, but no systematic search had been undertaken at the time.

Ranked a historic monument in 1923, the cryptoportic was for a long time neglected, summarising itself to a grassed terrace and a metal staircase. It was only in 1982 that safeguard work was carried out, including the consolidation of a 65 cm deep pillar and the restoration of collapsed vaults. These interventions allowed its opening to the public in 1983, limited to the eastern part. Today, the site hosts exhibitions and cultural events, while illustrating the Roman past of Reims.

The cryptoportique highlights the central role of Reims (Durocortorum) in Roman Gaul, as evidenced by its 3,160 visitors in 2002. Its current use, combining tourist tours and artistic events, perpetuates its function as a gathering place, although in a contemporary form. The excavations, carried out mainly by volunteers of the Champagne Archaeological Society, remain partial due to urban constraints.

Collection

Il sert de scène à des manifestations de musique en extérieur et d'expositions en intérieur.

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