Step back into history and discover one of the most important documents ever written — the Magna Carta.
Durham Cathedral Museum is proud to display its treasured 1216 issue of Magna Carta, one of only a handful of surviving copies in the world. This extraordinary document, issued under the reign of King John’s successor Henry III, is a vital part of England’s story and a symbol of the origins of liberty, law, and democracy.
Highlights of the exhibition include:
The 1216 Magna Carta – the earliest surviving reissue, held only at Durham
Fascinating insight into how Magna Carta shaped the development of rights and freedoms
Context about Durham’s unique role in the medieval period
Interactive displays and expert interpretation to bring the history to life
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student of law, or a curious visitor, this exhibition offers a rare opportunity to stand face-to-face with a document that changed the course of history.
