The two towers of Reims Cathedral are almost identical. At the top of the 249 steps of a spiral staircase (on the right-hand side of the photo), the view of the city is breathtaking. From there, it is possible to observe certain statues whose heads appear disproportionate to their bodies, thanks to an optical effect intended by medieval architects. The towers are 80 metres high, but their initial height was to reach 120 metres with the spires. The fire of 1481 stopped the construction work and the spires were never added. The towers can be visited at fixed times with a guide, for which a fee is charged.