Lunchtime Curator Tour at the Oriental Museum

Did you know there is a special exhibition on the Palace Museum, Beijing at the Oriental Museum? Join our curator Dr Qin Cao for an exclusive lunchtime tour of , the first venue outside China to host this remarkable photography exhibition.

Discover how the Forbidden City transformed from the home of 24 emperors into one of the world’s most significant museums, and explore rarely seen archival images that trace a century of political change, preservation, and cultural ambition.

The exhibition also provides fascinating new insights into Durham University’s early links with the Palace Museum through Malcolm MacDonald (1901-1981), former Chancellor of Durham University (1971- 1980), and a prominent politician and diplomat.

Spaces are limited and tickets are free, but booking is essential via Eventbrite by selecting the date you wish to attend.

If you can no longer make it, please cancel your booking so your place can be offered to someone else.

Parking and Accessibility

Limited free parking is available at the Oriental Museum. For directions contact the Oriental Museum on 0191 334 5691.

The Oriental Museum is fully accessible.

For further information please visit our website

Image caption: View of the Palace Museum in the 1920s and 2025; Photos: © The Palace Museum; Image designed by Ziyu Zhou

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Host or Publisher Oriental Museum