<< EXPLORING LINKS: Above, a wooden Buddha from the 18th/19th Century. Right, an 11th Century votive stupa. These are constructed to commemorate visits or to gain spiritual benefits

The Birth of Buddhism display highlights the work of academics from Durham University’s Archaeology department, who are studying the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.

The team has been working at the World Heritage Site, in Lumbini, Nepal.

The exhibition, at Palace Green Library, in Durham, looks at the birth of Buddhism and its spread across South Asia.

It features treasures from the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and Durham’s Oriental Museum, along with photographs.

Dr Craig Barclay, curator of Durham University Museums, said: “It is an exciting new exhibition that offers an opportunity to learn more about one of the world’s great religions and to see a range of amazing photographs and rare artefacts.”

The exhibition runs until Sunday, April 7. The gallery is open from 10am to 4.45pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is £3 for adults, £2 for children and concessions and free for Durham University campus card holders.