The Bayeux Tepestry

 THE BAYEUX TEPESTRY...

 

The Bayeux Tepestry is one of the most historically important chronicles of the Norman Conquest of England, is now located in the town of Bayeux in Normandy.

It begins with Harold of Wessex’s visit to Normandy and his meeting with Duke William in 1064, and culminates with the flight of the English army at Hastings.

It Includes the death of King Edward the Confessor in January 1066, Harold's coronation, William's elaborate invasion preparations, his landing at Pevensey, the Battle of Hastings and Harold's death.

There are decorated borders illustrating scenes, hunting and husbandry and also some episodes from the fables of Aesop and Phaedrus. Although it was almost destroyed in 1792 when French revolutionaries used it as a wagon cover, the whole has survived to this day and can still be viewed by visitors to the town of Bayeux.

The Tapestry consists of 626 humans, 55 dogs, 202 horses, 41 ships, 49 trees, almost 2000 Latin words, over 500 mythical and non mythical creatures such as birds and dragons. At least 8 colours of yarn are discernible. It is approximately 70 metres long and half a metre wide.