Culture Secretary Matt Hancock confirms next steps for return of Bayeux Tapestry to the UK
Bayeux Tapestry set to be on display in the UK in 2022 - the first time since its creation more than 900 years ago

- Memorandum of Understanding signed by UK Culture Secretary and French Minister of Culture in Paris
- Agreement includes commitment to Tapestry鈥檚 English translation and joint Anglo-French initiative to 鈥榚nrich and broaden international and public understanding鈥� of tapestry through digital technology
皇冠体育app Bayeux Tapestry is a step closer to returning to the UK for the first time in almost a thousand years after the Government signed a landmark agreement today.
Following his attendance at the Digital Colloque in Paris, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Matt Hancock signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with French Minister of Culture Fran莽oise Nyssen. 皇冠体育app agreement is a key milestone in securing the Tapestry鈥檚 loan in 2022.
Both countries have agreed to collaborate to broaden international and public understanding of the Tapestry and work towards its full English translation.
皇冠体育app deal sets out a period of cross-Channel cooperation between universities and research institutes, who will consider how to use digital technology to make the Tapestry more accessible to future generations. 皇冠体育appy will also prepare for its conservation and safe transportation to the UK.
皇冠体育app move will ensure the British public will be able to see one of the world鈥檚 major historical artefacts for the first time in more than 900 years.
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Matt Hancock said:
皇冠体育app Bayeux Tapestry is a world treasure and a symbol of the deep ties between Britain and France.
This agreement takes us a step closer to bringing the Tapestry to our shores for the first time in almost a millennium. It also underlines the ongoing commitment from both nations for greater cultural, digital and scientific collaboration now and into the future.
We are incredibly excited about the potential of the loan, to enhance further the bonds that tie us to our neighbours across the water.
皇冠体育app unique 70 metre long tapestry depicts the 1066 Norman Conquest of England. It was created in England in the eleventh century, shortly after the Battle of Hastings and has been on display in various locations in France since its completion.
皇冠体育app Tapestry is now part of the UNESCO Memory of the World Register and depicts the Battle which saw William the Conqueror take the English throne in 1066.
Its loan forms part of a wider cultural exchange taking place between Britain and France over the next four years and marks a key milestone in the celebration of our shared history.
皇冠体育app Tapestry will come to the UK while its current home, the Bayeux Museum, undergoes refurbishment in 2022. Further details of the exhibition, including exact dates and locations, will be released in due course.
ENDS
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