Church and State: Emperor Charlemagne's legacy
11 November 2026 - 17 April 2027
A new exhibition exploring the power and faith of medieval Emperor Charlemagne, one of the most influential rulers in European history.
Often described as the "father of Europe", Charlemagne ruled vast areas of western Europe during the early Middle Ages until his death in 814, and developed a model of leadership that combined political power with religious authority.
Drawing on rare manuscripts and early printed books from our special collections, Church and State: Emperor Charlemagne’s legacy reveals the intertwined world of Christianity and conquest in 800s Europe. You'll see beautiful bindings for prayer books which demonstrate the generosity toward monasteries under Charlemagne’s dynasty and scribes’ corrections on sermons which evidence the church's role education.
The exhibition also traces the lasting impact of Charlemagne's ideas beyond medieval Europe. From the establishment of the Church of England under King Henry VIII to the continuing relationship between church and state in Britain today, visitors are invited to consider how the past continues to shape the present.
Discover remarkable collection items, explore new research, and reflect on a legacy that still influences public life more than a thousand years later.
