The historic Bayeux Tapestry looks set to be loaned to the UK in what will be the first time in 950 years it has left its home in France.
French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit the UK Prime Minister Theresa May this week to discuss various issues, one of which will be the potential loan of the important artefact.
The tapestry is 70 metres long and 50 centimetres high and depicts events throughout French and English history including the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Although nothing has been confirmed, the British Museum in London is thought to be the biggest contender for the tapestry should it travel across to Britain.
In a statement to Group Leisure & Travel magazine, director of the British Museum, Hartwig Fischer, said: “This would be a major loan, probably the most significant ever from France to the UK.
“It is a gesture of extraordinary generosity and proof of the deep ties that link our countries. The Bayeux Tapestry is of huge importance, as it recounts a crucial moment in British and French history, 1066.
“We would be honoured and delighted to display it at the British Museum, the UK’s most visited and internationally respected institution. Here it would be seen by the widest UK and international audience in the context of a museum of world cultures.”
It is anticipated that President Macron will announced the proposed loan after his meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May, this week. If all goes ahead, the tapestry could be seen in the UK in 2020.
The British Museum
The museum in the heart of London is one of the most visited in Britain and holds an extensive collection of artefacts from around the world, representing different cultures.
Group visits are encouraged but are recommended to be booked in advance for those with more than ten people. Entry to the museum is free. Group discounts to certain exhibitions can be arranged on specific days too.
Organisers can contact 020 7323 8181 or email tickets@britishmuseum.org for more details on taking a group.
For more information, visit www.britishmuseum.org.
