The Bayeux Tapestry has arrived in Britain for the first time in nearly 1,000 years after a closely guarded journey from France, where it has long been displayed in Bayeux, Normandy.
The 70-metre medieval embroidery was transported overnight in a climate-controlled, shock-protected case under police escort before reaching the British Museum in London.
The artwork, believed to have been created in England before being taken to France, will go on public display in September and remain on loan until July 2027.
The transfer follows months of planning and security preparations, with transport details withheld until the tapestry had safely arrived.
The tapestry was folded on its existing display support and secured inside a specially designed crate featuring temperature and humidity controls as well as shock-absorbing protection.
It was transported by road through the Channel Tunnel before arriving at the British Museum during the early hours of the morning.
Museum officials said extensive planning, including practice transport runs using a textile replica, was carried out to reduce the risk of damage during the journey.
British Museum Director Nicholas Cullinan said, "It feels like a really remarkable thing not just to witness but to be part of, and we're so excited to share it with as many people as possible."
The loan coincides with renovation work at the Bayeux museum, allowing the tapestry to travel while its permanent home undergoes refurbishment.
In exchange, the British Museum will loan France the Sutton Hoo collection and other Anglo-Saxon artefacts.
The embroidery depicts 58 scenes surrounding the Norman conquest of England in 1066, culminating in the Battle of Hastings, when William, Duke of Normandy, defeated King Harold.
French President Emmanuel Macron described the loan as "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".
The agreement has been presented as a symbol of closer relations between France and the United Kingdom.
Despite concerns raised by some critics in France over moving such a fragile object, museum officials said every precaution had been taken to ensure its safe transport.
The exhibition has already generated significant public interest, with strong demand for tickets ahead of its opening.