Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux
This extraordinary tapestry—actually an elaborate embroidery on linen—is one of the sights of Bayeux that really shouldn’t be missed, even if historians believe it was created in Kent, not France (between 1066 and 1077). Measuring 69m (226 ft.) long and 50cm (20 in.) wide, this masterpiece displayed in a 270-degree glass case that curves along a tunnel-like room. Throughout its 58 scenes, you discover the story of the conquest of England by William the Conqueror. The free audio guide is definitely worth following, as it provides fascinating details that you are likely to overlook. The devil is in the detail—in more ways than one—so look out for surprising depictions at the top and bottom of the cloth.
Note: The museum is set to close for renovations at the end of 2024 until 2027, but you’ll still be able to examine the tapestry online via the museum’s website.
This extraordinary tapestry—actually an elaborate embroidery on linen—is one of the sights of Bayeux that really shouldn’t be missed, even if historians believe it was created in Kent, not France (between 1066 and 1077). Measuring 69m (226 ft.) long and 50cm (20 in.) wide, this masterpiece displayed in a 270-degree glass case that curves along a tunnel-like room. Throughout its 58 scenes, you discover the story of the conquest of England by William the Conqueror. The free audio guide is definitely worth following, as it provides fascinating details that you are likely to overlook. The devil is in the detail—in more ways than one—so look out for surprising depictions at the top and bottom of the cloth.
Note: The museum is set to close for renovations at the end of 2024 until 2027, but you’ll still be able to examine the tapestry online via the museum’s website.
Details
Bookstore
Available as paperback
and as e-book.
