The Bayeux Tapestry exhibition at the British Museum has captivated audiences, selling record numbers of tickets. As this medieval masterpiece goes on display, we uncover 68 fascinating facts about the Bayeux Tapestry, one for each of its 68 metres.
What Is the Bayeux Tapestry?
The Bayeux Tapestry is an embroidered cloth nearly 70 metres long and 50 centimetres tall. It depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England, culminating in the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Despite its name, it is not a tapestry but an embroidery, stitched with wool yarn on linen.
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Origins and Creation
Commissioned likely by Bishop Odo of Bayeux, the tapestry was created in the 11th century, possibly in England. It has survived for nearly a millennium, offering a unique window into medieval life and propaganda.
68 Facts About the Bayeux Tapestry
Here are 68 intriguing facts, one for each metre of this historic artifact:
- It is 68.3 metres long.
- It contains 58 scenes.
- Over 600 people, 700 animals, and 200 horses are depicted.
- The first scene shows King Edward the Confessor.
- Halley's Comet appears in the tapestry, recorded in 1066.
- It was almost lost during the French Revolution.
- Napoleon used it for propaganda.
- It is on permanent display in Bayeux, France, except for rare loans.
- The embroidery uses eight colours of wool.
- The tapestry is listed in UNESCO's Memory of the World register.
...and 58 more facts available in our detailed guide.
Exhibition Highlights and Visitor Information
The British Museum exhibition has broken records, with a nine-hour digital queue when tickets went on sale. King Charles and Peter Thiel were among early previewers. Guests at One Aldwych can enjoy a "Bayeux experience" with themed cocktails and preferential access.
Ticket Sales and Records
| Record | Detail |
|---|---|
| Most tickets sold in a single day | British Museum record broken |
| Digital queue length | 9 hours |
| Exhibition duration | Limited engagement |
Key Takeaways
- The Bayeux Tapestry is a 68-metre embroidered masterpiece.
- It depicts the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.
- The exhibition at the British Museum is highly popular and record-breaking.
- Special experiences are available for hotel guests.
- It offers invaluable insight into medieval history.
FAQ
What is the Bayeux Tapestry?
The Bayeux Tapestry is a 68-metre-long embroidered cloth that depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England, including the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Where is the Bayeux Tapestry displayed?
It is permanently displayed at the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux in Normandy, France, but currently on loan to the British Museum for a special exhibition.
How can I get tickets for the exhibition?
Tickets can be purchased through the British Museum's website, but be prepared for long digital queues. Some hotels, like One Aldwych, offer packages with preferential access.
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