Record Crowds for Durham Cathedral’s Magna Carta Exhibition
The enduring appeal of the Magna Carta helped Durham Cathedral Museum reach its highest-ever visitor numbers this year. The exhibition, which ran from July 11 to November 2, featured three rare Magna Cartas alongside related artworks, significantly boosting attendance.
The museum welcomed nearly 30,000 visitors, exceeding expectations by over 40%. The final week of the "Magna Carta and the North" exhibition marked the museum’s busiest period since opening in 2016, with more than 2,500 people attending during those days.
Exhibition Highlights
- Display of the only surviving 1216 Magna Carta, plus versions from 1225 and 1300.
- Inclusion of three Forest Charters.
- Celebration of the 800th anniversary of the 1225 Magna Carta.
Art and Innovation
A key feature was a commissioned light-based artwork titled The Words That Bind Us, created by artist Nicola Anthony. Installed in the Cathedral’s Nave, the piece transformed the space into a flowing river of light and language. Projected texts from Durham Cathedral’s Magna Carta collection shimmered and moved in response to visitors’ movements.
“The Words That Bind Us is a conversation across centuries — rooted in the ideals of the Magna Carta.” — Nicola Anthony
Awards and Recognition
The exhibition has been shortlisted for the North East Marketing Awards, scheduled for December 4 at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle.
Author's summary: Durham Cathedral’s innovative Magna Carta exhibition drew record crowds by combining historic documents with immersive artworks, celebrating history through interactive experience.