Muire Pavilion

The Pavillon de Muire, a rare Renaissance vestige in Reims

Elegant and discreet, the Pavillon de Muire is one of the few buildings in Reims to display Renaissance architecture. Inspired by Italian taste, it has crossed the centuries in a city largely rebuilt after the wars. The Reims audio-guided tour stops here to take the visitor back to the sixteenth century, long before the champagne epic.

A sixteenth-century dwelling

The pavilion was built in 1565 for the lord of Muire, whose estate lay west of Reims, following a request made to the town's aldermen. Much later, the neighbouring plot entered champagne history: bought by Madame Clicquot to set up her cellars, it was passed to her partner Edouard Werlé, who had a residence built there in 1840. The pavilion itself kept its Renaissance look.

What to see

The pavilion's interest lies in its façade, a witness to Renaissance refinement in a city where this style has almost vanished. Its lines, decoration and proportions contrast with the surrounding buildings and tell of another era of Reims. It is a stop for lovers of architecture and history, to be savoured while wandering the streets of the centre.

Practical information

The Pavillon de Muire stands on Rue Linguet, in the centre of Reims, and is seen from the street during a walk. As access conditions to the building depend on its current uses, it is best to enquire at the tourist office before any visit. The façade, however, can be freely admired from the outside.

How old is the Pavillon de Muire?

It was built in 1565 for the lord of Muire, making it one of the few Renaissance vestiges still visible in Reims.

What is the link with the Clicquot house?

The plot next to the pavilion was bought by Madame Clicquot for her cellars, then passed to her partner Edouard Werlé, who had a residence built there in 1840.