Rheims and the Battles for its Possession

by Pneu Michelin

ROMAN CAPITALS IN THE VESTIBULE OF THE CHAPTER-HOUSE

THE GRAND STAIRCASE OF THE HÔPITAL GÉNÉRAL

After visiting the Hôtel-Dieu, follow the Rue Simon, which skirts the Ecole de Médecine, then turn to the right into the Rue St. Remi. At the end of same, take the Rue Gambetta on the left, and follow it as far as the Hôpital Général on the right.

The Hôpital Général

This is the old Order-House of the Jesuits, built at the beginning of the 17th century. The refectory is ornamented with rich woodwork and paintings, by the Rheims artist Hélart. Of greater interest is the library, situated under the gables, and which is reached by a fine staircase. The room is adorned with a profusion of wood-carvings and mouldings. Exceedingly fine consoles carry the ceiling, whose carved panels are profusely ornamented with crowns, polygons, florets and heads of angels. The oaken pilasters which separate the bookshelves are decorated with a variety of leaves and flowers. In spite of this wealth of ornament, the general effect is harmonious. The recesses in the woodwork, opposite the dummy dormer-windows, were for reading.

Ancient vines cover the walls of the chapel, near the entrance to the hôpital.

At the side of the Hôpital Général stands the Church of St. Maurice.