Bayeux Tapestry smuggled into Britain for first visit in 1,000 years

The loan of the artwork is seen as symbolic of French-British relations as London works to mend ties post-Brexit.The Bayeux Tapestry has arrived in Britain for the first time in nearly 1,000 years following a secret journey from France.The priceless 70-metre-long medieval artwork depicting the Norman conquest of England was discreetly delivered to the British Museum in London in a high-security operation overnight on Friday.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4US and Ukraine agree on patriot missile production deallist 2 of 4Norway change World Cup team hotel in Miami days before England showdownlist 3 of 4Venezuela’s turn to Israel is about survival, not convictionlist 4 of 4Tense standoff at an anti-migrant protest in a South African townend of listCrafted from wool thread stitched onto linen, the tapestry accurately depicts the intertwined – sometimes bloody – histories of Britain and France, and is symbolic for both countries.Although expected in London for months, details of the tapestry’s 11-hour road journey were hidden for security reasons.The tapestry is making its first visit to Britain since it was made – probably in England – close to 1,000 years ago. It will be on display at the museum until July 2027.The loan is seen as symbolic of closer French-British relations as London works to revive ties following its exit from the European Union.French President Emmanuel Macron, who announced the loan last year, hailed the transfer as a celebration of Franco-British relations.In an article published in The Times newspaper, he called it a “tangible expression of long-standing friendship and a sign of our shared desire to see France and the United Kingdom build their future together”.In return, the British Museum will loan France the Sutton Hoo collection of Anglo-Saxon artefacts, one of England’s most important archaeological finds.“I can confirm that The Bayeux Tapestry has just arrived safely and securely at the British Museum,” George Osborne, chair of the British Museum, said in a post on X.