The ongoing reconstruction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is revealing more than just the scars left by the devastating fire of 2019. French archaeologists have unearthed a treasure trove of historical finds, including several graves and a leaden sarcophagus, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past lives entwined with this iconic landmark.
Announced by France’s culture ministry, the discovery was made during preparatory work to rebuild the church’s spire. The burial sites, described as being of “remarkable scientific quality,” were found at the very heart of the cathedral, where the transept meets the nave.
One particularly intriguing find was a “completely preserved, human-shaped sarcophagus made of lead.” Experts believe it may have held the remains of a “senior dignitary” and estimate it dates back to the 14th century, just over a hundred years after the cathedral’s construction began.
The excavations also yielded fragments of painted sculptures, identified as parts of the original 13th-century rood screen – a decorative partition separating the altar area from the main public space within the cathedral.
“The floor of the transept crossing has revealed remains of remarkable scientific quality,” said France’s Culture Minister Roselyne Bachelot. The positive results have prompted an extension of the excavation works until March 25th.
The archaeological dig delved beneath an 18th-century stone layer, uncovering remnants from as far back as the 14th and even the early 13th century. “We were able to send a small camera inside [the sarcophagus] which showed cloth remains, organic matter such as hair and plant remains,” explained Christophe Besnier from France’s National Archaeological Institute. “The presence of these well-preserved plant materials suggests the contents have been exceptionally well-preserved.”
These discoveries offer a unique opportunity to learn more about the people associated with Notre Dame throughout its long history. The meticulously preserved sarcophagus, in particular, holds the potential to reveal the identity and social standing of the individual entombed within. As the reconstruction progresses, further archaeological exploration may unearth even more secrets buried beneath the cathedral, enriching our understanding of this architectural marvel and the lives it has touched over the centuries.