Encounter the women of medieval Europe through their own words, visions and experiences, in an exhibition like no other.

Discover the rich and complex lives of women in the Middle Ages, with over 140 extraordinary items that reveal their artistry, resourcefulness, courage and struggles.

Must-see highlights include:

The Book of the Queen by Christine de Pizan: The first professional woman author in Europe
Sibylle of Flanders’ 12th-century ivory cross: Owned by Sibylle, countess of Flanders, who went on Crusade to the Holy Land
A silk textile made in al-Andalus (Islamic Spain), where Muslim women labourers were fundamental to the silk industry
Julian of Norwich’s The Revelations of Divine Love: the first work in English definitely authored by a woman
A 15th-century birthing girdle: a manuscript inscribed with prayers and charms that was used for protection during childbirth
Battel Hall retable, a rare surviving painting from a medieval English nunnery
On Women’s Cosmetics: a recipe book likely to have been composed in Southern Italy in the 12th century with recipes for hair dye remover, face creams and breath freshener
A lion skull that possibly came from a pet lion of Margaret of Anjou, Queen of England.
Break free from traditional narratives and encounter personalities both famous and forgotten who tell the story of medieval womanhood. And discover stories familiar to women today, from the gender pay gap and harmful stereotypes, to access to healthcare and education, as well as challenges faced by female leaders.

Hear the words of medieval women from across the centuries, speaking powerfully for the thousands whose voices have not survived.

Ticket pricing
British Library Members go free with a guest. Select your free tickets and proceed to book, you don’t need to log in. Please bring your Membership card with you when you visit. Find out more about becoming a British Library Member.

Ticket bundles are available at checkout for this exhibition along with A Silk Road Oasis: Life in Ancient Dunhuang for the duration that the two exhibitions are both open.

Other Concessions are available, including for under 25s, students and those with a disability. Please see the ticket options for more details and select the ticket type you require. The British Library also offers discounts for groups of 10+, these will automatically discount once added to your basket.

ICOM, NMDC and other reciprocal free entry scheme organisation cards are accepted for free entry into this exhibition up until 16 February, there is no need to pre-book, please visit the Library with your card for entry, subject to availability.

Medieval Women: In Their Own Words is made possible with support from Joanna and Graham Barker and Unwin Charitable Trust.

The Medieval Women: In Their Own Words exhibition book supported by Cockayne – Grants for the Arts: a donor advised fund held at the London Community Foundation