Join author and authority on the Middle East Diana Darke as she takes us on a forensic journey through the history of medieval architecture. From the Mont-Saint-Michel to Santiago de Compostela, from Pisa and its Leaning Tower to Palermo, and from Durham to Ely, Diana will unearth new clues in the vaulting and decorative detail of the crucial pre-Gothic period known as 'Romanesque', the essential springboard for all future European architectural styles.

As the origins are explored and the connections and dates fall into place, the identities of the mystery master builders also become clear. Diana concludes that Romanesque, a fiction first invented by nineteenth-century art historians, should in fact be more rightly restyled ‘Islamesque’.

How To Get Your Tickets

1. Book your desired number of tickets and await an email from us confirming your order. This email will contain a booking confirmation PDF, this is NOT a ticket.

2. Present your confirmation PDF on arrival at the venue. Ensure that you take personal ID with you or you may be turned away.

Additional Information

• This event is open to all ages, but is aimed at adults.

• For further event information please visit: https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/hidden-science-europes-great-cathedrals

• You can choose a Free Ticket or a Free Ticket with £5 Donation - all £5 goes straight to the Royal Institution to continue their excellent scientific education work. Both tickets allow the same entry to the event.

Accessibility Information

• Please note: We recommend all access bookings are made directly through the event organiser, however, we are here to assist where possible. Please get in touch with us prior to booking if you have access requirements. For accessibility information please visit: https://www.rigb.org/visit