Troy
myth and reality
Past exhibition
21 November 2019 – 8 March 2020
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The legend of Troy has endured for more than 3,000 years.
The story of a great city, plunged into a 10-year war over the abduction of the most beautiful woman in the world, is irresistibly dramatic and tragic. This allure has sent adventurers and archaeologists in quest of the lost city, which is now widely believed to have existed.
But what of the heroes and heartbroken, women and wanderers, who are said to have played a part in the Trojan War? Why have they inspired so many retellings, from Homer to Shakespeare to Hollywood? In this exhibition, you could get closer to these captivating characters as you explored the breathtaking art that brought them to life, from dramatic ancient sculptures and exquisite vase paintings to powerful contemporary works.
You could also examine the fascinating archaeological evidence that proves there was a real Troy, offering tantalising hints at the truth behind the mythical stories.
From Helen of Troy's abduction to the deception of the Trojan Horse and the fall of the city, visitors were able to tread the line between myth and reality in this phenomenal exhibition.