Discover an exceptional work of art
Queen Matilda’s Tapestry is over a thousand years old
Housed in Bayeux, in Calvados, the Bayeux Tapestry is an embroidery measuring nearly 70 metres in length and 50 centimetres in height. Created in the 11th century, it recounts with remarkable precision the events leading up to the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy, and his victory at the Battle of Hastings im Jahr 1066.
Long known as the ‘Tapestry of Queen Matilda’, it was probably not made by William the Conqueror’s wife, as legend has long suggested. Historians now believe it was commissioned by Odo of Bayeux, William’s half-brother and Bishop of Bayeux, to celebrate this historic conquest and reinforce the legitimacy of the new King of England.
A historical record unique in the world
Far more than a mere work of art, the Bayeux Tapestry is an exceptional historical document. Its 58 scenes, more than 600 figures, hundreds of animals, Viking ships, castles, weapons and numerous details of daily life offer a valuable insight into medieval society.
Every visit reveals new details: the costumes, fighting techniques, boats, horses and even the hunting scenes paint a remarkably rich picture of life in the 11th century. It is this precision that makes the tapestry an indispensable source for medieval historians.
Often presented as a work of propaganda in favour of William the Conqueror, it remains today a major historical document, as important for the history of Normandy as it is for that of England.
A work saved on several occasions
The Bayeux Tapestry has survived for nearly ten centuries without being lost. During the French Revolution, it narrowly escaped destruction thanks to several local residents who protected it. It was also preserved during both world wars, despite the many dangers to which it was exposed.
This remarkable state of preservation is what gives it its exceptional character and international renown today.
Global recognition
Owing to its exceptional historical and heritage value, the Bayeux Tapestry has been inscribed on UNESCO’s ‘Memory of the World’ Register since 2007. This distinction honours the most valuable documents in human history and confirms the universal significance of this unique work.
Why visit the Bayeux Tapestry during your holiday?
A visit to the Bayeux Tapestry is one of the unmissable highlights of a stay in Normandy. Whether you’re a history buff, a heritage enthusiast or simply curious, this work impresses as much with its sheer size as with the finesse of its embroidery.
Thanks to a guided tour with an audio guide, each scene comes to life, helping you to understand the major events that shaped the birth of the Anglo-Norman kingdom. Children and adults alike enjoy this veritable medieval comic strip, whose narrative remains surprisingly modern nearly a thousand years after its creation.
After your visit, take the time to explore Bayeux’s historic centre, with its medieval alleyways, majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, half-timbered houses and numerous restaurants and shops. The town is also an excellent base from which to explore the D-Day beaches, located just a few kilometres away.
A new museum in the pipeline
Until now, the Bayeux Tapestry has been on display at the museum dedicated to it, housed in the former Bayeux Major Seminary since 1983. To ensure the best possible conditions for the conservation of this thousand-year-old masterpiece, a major renovation project and the construction of a new museum are currently underway.
As part of this work, the museum will be temporarily closed until October 2027 to allow for the transfer and preservation of the tapestry. The future facility will offer a completely redesigned visitor experience, immersive spaces and optimal conservation conditions, enabling visitors to discover this masterpiece in a modern setting befitting its historical significance.
Whether you’re staying at a campsite on the Normandy coast, near the D-Day beaches or in the Calvados countryside, a visit to the Bayeux Tapestry is an unmissable excursion. Combining heritage, history and emotion, this visit will take you back nearly a thousand years and will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your holiday in Normandy.
What are the best campsites around Bayeux?
To organise your camping holiday in Calvados, Normandy, and to see the Bayeux Tapestry, check out the list of campsites around Bayeux.
Practical information:
The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is open every day from 1 February to 31 December. Closed from 24 to 26 December (morning) and on 31 December (morning)
PLEASE NOTE: THE SITE IS CLOSED UNTIL OCTOBER 2027
Address:
13, rue de Nesmond
14400 Bayeux
Tel. +33 (0) 2 31 51 25 50
Website: bayeuxmuseum.com/the-bayeux-tapestry