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During the “Parliamentary rebellion” Auckland Palace was “almost utterly destroyed [with gunpowder] by the ravenous sacrilege of Sir Arthur Haselrig.” Or at least that’s what we’re told by Bishop John Cosin, who returned to Auckland Palace when Haselrig was imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1660. But Haselrig also tried to build a new house here which has been lost beneath the lawns, since Cosin tore it down over 350 years ago.

In June 2024, archaeologists from Durham University and The Auckland Project set out to find this missing piece of history – but what did they find? Join Archaeology Curator John Castling to find out.

Free ticket is valid only with Palace entry.

An evening with Chris Gerrard, Professor in the Department of Archaeology at Durham University, whose ground-breaking work spans Britain and Spain.

Chris has led remarkable excavations, including the recent uncovering of Bek’s Chapel at Auckland Palace, featured on BBC2’s Digging for Britain. This event offers a rare opportunity to hear Chris discuss his extensive career and the exciting discoveries made right here at The Auckland Project. Guiding the conversation will be Archaeology & Social History Curator John Castling who collaborated with Chris on the digs. Don’t miss this evening with two leading experts as they bring our rich medieval history to life.

Saturday 2nd November, 6pm.

Join Morlin Ellis, Research Curator of the Spanish Gallery, for an insightful talk on the remarkable Neapolitan Nativity Scene in our collection.

Standing 11 feet tall and 15 feet wide, this stunning 18th-century wonder is among the most significant examples outside Italy. The scene is a vibrant blend of classical and Christian traditions, set against the everyday life of Naples. Featuring 421 intricately detailed hand-made figures, the display includes lively street vendors, musicians, shepherds, farmers, travellers, and children, a diverse array of animals such as goats, cats, and oxen, and a breath-taking model of the streets of Naples in miniature. Central to the piece are the biblical figures of the Holy Family, the wise men, angels, and humble shepherds.

Join us to discover the rich history and artistry behind this unique 18th-century treasure this Christmas season.

Please note, this event is free but only with valid entry to Auckland Palace & Faith Museum, Spanish Gallery, or with an Unlimited Pass. The Nativity in our collection will be on display in Gallery 3 of the Faith Museum.

The figure of Mary’s husband Joseph is familiar from Christmas cards, carols, cribs and nativity plays, yet in the Bible he never speaks a word. 

It took many centuries for the quiet carpenter to emerge from humble obscurity and for artists to make his image visible. This lecture explores the many legends and faces of Joseph through the ages, from wizened old man to powerful guardian. Discover the hidden depths in that simple bearded figure on your Christmas cards.