World-famous tapestry arrives in London under cover of night

The world-famous Bayeux Tapestry has arrived in London, making its historic first exit from France in over 900 years. Journalists from AFP witnessed the specially constructed metal case containing the roughly 70-meter-long embroidered cloth being unloaded from a truck in the early hours of Friday.

The tapestry, renowned for its length, age, intricate detail, and exceptional state of preservation, vividly recounts the Norman conquest of England and the pivotal Battle of Hastings in 1066 through 58 distinct scenes. The operation surrounding its transport has been conducted with a high degree of security.

In September, the tapestry was moved from its usual home at the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Normandy to a secret storage location within France, as the museum itself is undergoing renovations. Details of the move were kept confidential until the transport took place. Under police escort, the tapestry was transported through the British capital in the dead of night before reaching its destination at the British Museum.

Nick Cullinan, director of the British Museum, was present at the arrival and described the event as "quite extraordinary." He noted the tapestry's "return to England for the first time in almost 1000 years." The Bayeux Tapestry is scheduled to be exhibited at the British Museum from September 10, 2024, to July 11, 2027. It is believed to have been created in England in the 11th century, possibly commissioned by Bishop Odo of Bayeux.

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We have just witnessed something quite extraordinary, which is the arrival of the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum – or rather its return to England for the first time in almost 1000 years.