The 70-metre embroidery will go on display at the British Museum in September on a nine-month loan, giving visitors a rare chance to see the artwork depicting events leading to the Norman Conquest of England. The exhibition is expected to be one of the museum’s biggest attractions in decades.

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The loan forms part of a cultural agreement between France and the UK, with the British Museum lending artefacts, including the Sutton Hoo treasures and Lewis chess pieces, in return. Demand has been strong, with 100,000 tickets sold on the first day.

The transport was done under strict conservation measures, and the tapestry will undergo detailed inspections before opening and will be displayed flat for visitors. The museum in Bayeux is currently closed for renovation, enabling the temporary loan.