Routes, ruins and reconnaissance exhibition

Routes, Ruins and Reconnaissance will explore the archaeological and geographical work of Gertrude Bell FRGS, considering how her pursuit of these interests developed skills and expertise that would prove invaluable to British intelligence in the First World War.

The exhibition will consider Bell’s relationship with the Royal Geographical Society, highlighting their individual and collaborative contributions to the war effort, whilst showcasing unique photographic and documentary material in one venue for the first time.

The exhibition features newly digitised images created from original negatives held within the Royal Geographical Society’s Gertrude Bell collections, as well as treasures from Bell’s UNESCO International Memory of the World archive, curated by Newcastle University Special Collections and the School of History, Classics, and Archaeology.

This collaboration has been made possible by generous funding from the Harry and Alice Stillman Family Foundation as part of Newcastle University’s modernisation of the Gertrude Bell Archive and reinterpretations of the life and legacy of an iconic individual.

Accessibility at our events

We want everyone to feel welcome at our events. Key accessibility features of this exhibition include:

• Step-free access to the event
• Accessible toilets
• Assistance dogs are welcome

For full details, please visit our accessibility page. If you have any questions or specific access requirements, feel free to get in touch with us on access@rgs.org