Posted by ReutersParis, France
Archaeologists have found an ancient lead sarcophagus underneath Notre Dame Cathedral, along with fragments of a roof screen, providing new insights into the history of the building, which is currently under renovation following a devastating fire in 2019.
Notre-Dame, built in the 12th century, ordered excavations inside the cathedral as a precaution before installing the scaffolding needed to restore the 100-meter wooden roof ridge.
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“Remains of remarkable scientific quality have been found on the floor of the transept crossing,” French Culture Minister Roselyne Bachelot said, adding that the excavation had been extended until March 25.
The excavation site is under a rock layer that dates back to the 18th century, but some of the lower levels date back to the 14th and some even to the early 13th century, the Culture Ministry said.
Christophe Besnier of France’s National Archaeological Institute said: “We were able to send a small camera inside that showed remnants of tissue, organic matter such as hair and plant remains.”
“The fact that these plants are still there indicates that the contents are very well preserved.”
French Minister of Culture Roseline Bachelot visits the archaeological site of Notre Dame Cathedral after the discovery of a 14th-century lead sarcophagus in Paris, March 15, 2022. Photo: JULIEN DE ROSA/AFP/Getty Images
The archaeologists said the lead sarcophagus likely belonged to a dignitary and said it could be dated to the 14th century, which, if confirmed, would make it an exciting find.
Excavations have also unearthed a pit directly under the floor of the cathedral, which was probably made around 1230 when Notre Dame, one of the oldest examples of French Gothic, was being built.
The fire at Notre Dame shocked France, with weeping Parisians and stunned tourists watching in disbelief as the cathedral’s spire collapsed as a result of the fire.
Top image: 4th century lead sarcophagus found in the floor of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.