PARIS, March 15 (Reuters) – Archaeologists have discovered an historical lead sarcophagus below Notre-Dame cathedral together with fragments of a rood display, providing a brand new perception into the historical past of the constructing which is at the moment below reconstruction after a devastating hearth in 2019.
Notre-Dame, which dates again to the twelfth century, commissioned the excavation works contained in the cathedral as a precautionary measure earlier than the set up of scaffolding wanted to revive a 100-metre excessive picket roof ridge.
“The ground of the transept crossing has revealed stays of exceptional scientific high quality,” France’s Tradition Minister Roselyne Bachelot stated, including that excavation works have been prolonged till March 25.
The excavation website lies below a stony layer that dates from the 18th century, however some decrease ranges return so far as the 14th, and a few even the early thirteenth century, the Tradition Ministry stated.
Christophe Besnier from France’s Nationwide Archaeological Institute stated: “We have been in a position to ship a small digicam inside which confirmed material stays, natural matter equivalent to hair and plant stays.”
“The truth that these crops are nonetheless there signifies that the contents have been very nicely preserved.”
Archaeologists stated the lead sarcophagus most likely belonged to a excessive dignitary and stated it may date again to the 14th century, which – if confirmed – would make it a spectacular discover.
The excavation additionally revealed a pit instantly under the cathedral flooring, which was prone to have been made round 1230, when Notre-Dame, one of many oldest examples of French Gothic, was below building.
The Notre Dame hearth shocked France, with tearful Parisians and surprised vacationers watching in disbelief because the blaze despatched the cathedral’s spire crashing down.
Writing by Tassilo Hummel. Enhancing by Jane Merriman
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