About the display

The Conserving the Magna Carta exhibition, and Australia's Magna Carta are currently on display at Parliament House.

After an extensive conservation and research project, the Magna Carta has returned to public display on Level 1 in a new custom-made preservation case that will maintain the condition of the document’s materials: parchment, ink, seal and cords.  

The Conserving the Magna Carta exhibition invites visitors to find out about this important conservation project by showcasing the scientific research and analysis that has allowed this Magna Carta to return to display. You can see the exhibition in the Presiding Officers Exhibition Area.  

Over the last eight years this research project has enhanced understanding of the over 700 year-old document’s history. It has also contributed to an updated conservation plan to ensure its continued public display for future generations.

First issued in 1215, the Magna Carta (Latin for ‘Great Charter’) is celebrated as a founding document in the development of constitutional and parliamentary government. Very few 13th century official copies of the Magna Carta are known to survive. 

In 1952 Prime Minister Robert Menzies announced that the Australian Government had purchased a 1297 inspeximus copy of the Magna Carta for the nation. It is one of only four known original 1297 inspeximus copies in existence. 

Over the 50 years since the Magna Carta’s first public display in Australia, the knowledge, techniques, and technology in the scientific field of materials conservation developed 
significantly. You can learn about this conservation journey in Conserving the Magna Carta.

Plan your visit

We look forward to welcoming you to Parliament House. Plan your visit today.

Image: Edward I (1272–1307) Inspeximus issue of Magna Carta, 1297, Parliament House Art Collections.