Norman Day special

Tom Sutcliffe and guests explore the architecture and culture of Norman Britain as part of a special day of programmes on Radio 4 marking the return of the Bayeux Tapestry.

From Durham to Peterborough, Lincoln to Norwich, the Norman invasion shaped British architecture, landscape and culture. Beginning in wood but later cemented in stone, power was expressed in the rounded arches and distinctive ornamentation of cathedrals and castles. Beginning in 1066, the Romanesque style can still be seen all over the country today, and Britain also bears the stamp of Norman cultural influence in other ways too - from illuminated manuscripts to music.

With guests including Helen Carr, writer and historian; Janina Ramirez, art historian and author of Legenda: The Real Women Behind the Myths that Shaped Europe;
Simon Jenkins, author and and Vicky Richardson, curator and writer specialising in architecture.

Also - John Goodall, Architectural Critic of Country Life, tours Lincoln cathedral and castle.

Producer: Eliane Glaser