Archeologists at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris have found several tombs and a leaden sarcophagus that are thought to be from the 14th century.

France's culture ministry announced late Monday that the ancient church's spire at the central spot where the transept crosses the nave had been unearthed.

A human-shaped sarcophagus made of lead was among the tombs.

The coffin is thought to have been made for a senior dignitary in the 1300s.

A photo shows antique objects found by archaeologists in the floor of Notre Dame cathedral.

A photo shows antique objects found by archaeologists in the floor of Notre Dame cathedral. Photograph: Julien de Rosa/AFP/Getty Images

The tombs and painted sculptures were found just beneath the current floor level of the cathedral, which was built in the 13th century.

Archaeologists were cleaning and excavating sculptures, including a pair of carved hands, during a visit by the Agence France-Presse.

The bust of a bearded man and some sculpted vegetables had been removed.

The team used a mini camera to look inside the sarcophagus, which appeared to have been warped by the weight of the earth and stones.

A picture shows a 14th century lead sarcophagus discovered in the floor of Notre Dame.

A picture shows a 14th century lead sarcophagus discovered in the floor of Notre Dame. Photograph: Julien de Rosa/AFP/Getty Images

When religious leaders are buried, you can see pieces of fabric, hair and a pillow of leaves on top of their heads.

The fact that the plant elements are still inside means the body is in a good state of preservation.

It will help improve our understanding of funeral practices in the middle ages, according to the National Institute of Archaeological Research.

The reconstruction site of the roof of the Notre Dame Cathedral, which was damaged in a devastating fire two years ago

The restoration of Notre Dame is ready to start.

As teams checked the stability of the ground, they made discoveries.

The sarcophagus was found among the brick pipes of the underground heating system from the 19th century.

The clock is running for the archaeologists despite the excitement of the find.

They have been given until 25 March to finish their work, so that the cathedral can be reopened in 2024.