A team of archaeologists recently found sculptures and several tombs just below the church's floor, as well as a 14th-century lead sarcophagus that they believe.
The spire of Notre Dame collapsed during a fire in April 2019. Researchers had to check the stability of Notre Dame's floor in anticipation of the spire's reconstruction. Archaeologists were on hand to make sure nothing was damaged.
Multiple burials were found beneath the church floor, which dates to the 18th century, according to the French cultural ministry. The lead sarcophagus, which was found around the pipes of an underground heating system dating to the 19th century, was not offered by the ministry. The sarcophagus was left amidst their plumbing. The sarcophagus is in good shape despite being damaged for so long by the weight of the earth.
Archaeologists put a camera into the sarcophagus to evaluate the preservation of its contents. The images offered a clue as to who was in the metal box.
You can see pieces of fabric, hair and a pillow of leaves on top of a religious leader's head.
The material of the sarcophagus was not surprising. Lead was a popular building material in the Medieval period, and sarcophagi were made of it. The cathedral fire in Paris was caused by the lead in Notre Dame, so toxic debris spread across the city.
The tombs, sarcophagus, and carved sculptures were found in the center of Notre Dame's floor, where the church's transept crosses its nave, according to the cultural ministry. The bust of a bearded man was depicted in the sculptures. Some objects had traces of paint on them. Archeologists believe the carvings are part of the original rood screen of the church, which separates the altar from the nave.
Firefighters saved one of the church's choir screens. Archaeologists think they have found remnants of a demolished screen.
The church floor is from the early 13th century and the tombs are from the 18th century. The foundation stone of the church was laid in 1163 by Pope Alexander III and most of the church was completed in the ensuing century.
Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris said that the spire will be the same materials as before. The archaeological team has until March 25 to finish their work. Notre Dame is expected to reopen in the year 2024.
The National Museum in Brazil is destroying a huge cultural and scientific collection.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
