King Richard III Visitor Centre

About:

The King Richard III Visitor Centre in Leicester is a modern, immersive museum dedicated to the life, death, and legacy of King Richard III, the last Plantagenet king of England. Opened in 2014, the centre is located in the heart of Leicester, near the site where Richard III’s remains were famously discovered in 2012, under a car park that was once the Greyfriars friary.

The visitor centre is housed in a former Victorian school building, creatively redesigned to blend historical elements with contemporary architecture. The exhibition is spread across two floors, offering a chronological journey through Richard III’s life, from his controversial rise to power to his death at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485.

Interactive displays and multimedia installations bring the 15th century to life, exploring the political intrigue and turmoil of the Wars of the Roses. One of the highlights is a detailed, life-sized replica of Richard III’s skeleton, which illustrates the severe scoliosis he suffered. The exhibit also covers the dramatic story of his remains’ discovery and the extensive scientific analysis that confirmed his identity, including DNA testing.

The centre’s showpiece is the viewing platform over the original grave site, preserved beneath a glass floor, where visitors can reflect on the king’s turbulent reign and untimely demise.

The King Richard III Visitor Centre not only serves as a historical and educational resource but also stimulates debate about the king’s legacy, challenging the Shakespearean portrayal of Richard as a malevolent tyrant. It has become a significant cultural and tourist attraction in Leicester, drawing visitors from around the world who are keen to learn more about this enigmatic figure in English history.