Hereford Cathedral invites the public to view one of its treasures, the enamelled reliquary of St Thomas Becket, when it goes on display on Friday 15 & Saturday 16 November 2024 in the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library.

The Becket reliquary is one of several made in Limoges, in south-western France around the years 1200-1210, just decades after Becket’s martyrdom. It would originally have held a relic of the saint himself and would have been placed on the altar within Hereford Cathedral that was dedicated to Becket. It is a reminder of the important role that relics played within medieval life, and especially the popularity of St Thomas Becket, murdered in his own cathedral in 1170 and canonised as a saint in 1173.

The reliquary is not normally on public display, but for one weekend only,  it will be available to view within the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, alongside the current exhibition Seeds of Eternity. On Friday 15 November, the cathedral will offer an exclusive evening event from 6.30 pm, allowing visitors special access to the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library Exhibition, where they can admire the Becket Reliquary at their leisure. The evening will include a talk on the reliquary’s fascinating history at 7 pm, giving attendees a deeper understanding of its significance. Tickets for this event are £12, including a glass of wine and nibbles to enjoy in the Cathedral Café before or after the exhibition – advanced booking is essential.

Jennifer Dumbelton, Hereford Cathedral Librarian, said: "We’re excited to share our Becket reliquary, a world-class piece of art with sister pieces in institutions like the V&A. We know the exclusive Friday night viewing and talk will create a special atmosphere for visitors."

The Becket reliquary will be on display in the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library Exhibition throughout Friday 15 and Saturday 16 November, from 10 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm). Normal admission prices apply. Tickets for the evening event on Friday 15 November are available here.

If you have any questions about this event, or accessibility, please contact [email protected] or call 01432 374 225/6