Flocks of tourists are expected in Reading as the town possesses one of the few Bayeux tapestries in existence, as the original is due to be stowed away.
The original Bayeux Tapestry, housed in its eponymous city in Normandy, France, depicts the victory of Duke William of Normandy in the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
The battle brought an end to the Anglo-Saxon era, with the death of King Harold Godwinson, and the establishment of Norman rule by King William I, the Conqueror.
The original tapestry is stored in the Bayeux Museum and is due to be stowed away in September this year while the museum undergoes an upgrade.
Reading Museum possesses one of eight replicas and facsimiles of the embroidery.
This news was acknowledged at a meeting of Reading Borough Council’s housing, neighbourhoods and leisure committee, which is in charge of decision-making for the museum.
Councillor Josh Williams (Green, Park) said: “I saw on the news that the original Bayeux Tapestry is going into storage for two years, and it said that visitors to France will be unable to see it.
“And it didn’t mention that visitors to Reading will be able to come to this fair place, go to the Museum and admire the Victorian copy in all its glory.
“Also, I’m not sure how to properly pronounce Bayeux [By-yuh], I’m probably getting that wrong.”
Cllr Rachel Eden (Labour, Whitley), chair of the committee, quipped: “I’m not going to correct your pronunciation, cllr Williams!”
It has been reported that the original tapestry will go into storage while the museum undergoes the upgrade, planned to reopen in October 2027.
The Reading replica, completed in 188,6 diverges from the original as nude male figures are clothed to conform to Victorian moral standards.
Addressing cllr Williams, cllr Karen Rowland (Labour, Abbey)said: ” That is a very good point, I believe it’s Bay-yo, I hope it’s Bay-yo!
“The one good thing about them coming to see our version is that they [the characters] have their pants on!”
The replica tapestry was mentioned during the discussion of the ‘Forward Plan’ for the Museum for 2025 to 2030.
The plan, approved by councillors in March, involves exploring the development of the Bayeux Tapestry virtual experience.
There have been discussions about displaying the original tapestry in England while the upgrade of the Museum takes place.
A statement has been requested from Reading Borough Council and the Museum of Bayeux.
The original tapestry is believed to have been commissioned by King William’s half-brother, Odo, the Bishop of Bayeux, and made by embroiderers in England.
It was then likely brought to Bayeux and displayed in Bayeux Cathedral around 1077 to coincide with the cathedral’s consecration.
