Crowds of hopeful visitors flooded online booking systems as tickets went on sale for the historic debut of the Bayeux Tapestry in Britain. The 11th-century embroidery, documenting the 1066 Norman conquest, will be hosted at the British Museum for ten months while its permanent home in Normandy undergoes renovations.
Over 65,000 individuals logged on simultaneously when sales commenced on Wednesday. While some users faced technical hurdles due to high traffic, others successfully secured their spots. British Museum Director Dr. Nicholas Cullinan described the arrival as a landmark event, noting that the exhibition offers a rare chance to view the 70-meter artwork laid out in its entirety within a custom-built glass enclosure.
Conservation remains a primary focus, with test runs ensuring the delicate piece can endure the transit via the Eurotunnel. The exhibit will be protected by specialized security and constant monitoring throughout its journey. Pricing for the exhibition has been set at £33 for peak periods and £27 for off-peak, a move Dr. Cullinan defended as necessary for a charity to recover the high costs of logistics and security, though he emphasized that children under 16 receive free entry.
For those who missed this initial window, additional ticket releases are scheduled for October and January. The project represents a significant moment for the museum, despite some past criticism regarding the risks associated with moving such an ancient artifact.