• Home
• Membership
• Why does the Bayeux Tapestry still command our attention?

Why does the Bayeux Tapestry still command our attention?

The British Museum's upcoming blockbuster exhibition of the Bayeux Tapestry marks the likely homecoming of this venerable artefact, to immense excitement. But why has it taken so long for it to return?

• Matt Elton

Published: July 30, 2026 at 12:27 PM

Save

• Share on facebook
• Share on twitter
• Share on whatsapp
• Email to a friend

The British Museum's upcoming blockbuster exhibition of the Bayeux Tapestry marks the likely homecoming of this venerable artefact, to immense excitement. But why has it taken so long for it to return? And how has it become such a political football in our own time?

Ad

Want to hear more from History Behind the Headlines? Listen to all episodes now

Authors

Matt EltonPodcast editor

Matt Elton is the podcast editor at HistoryExtra

Ad

Ad

Loading...

Ad

Loading...