Mar 15, 2022: Ancient sarcophagus found under Notre-Dame cathedral amid restorations

Archeologists at the Notre-Dame cathedral unearthed a lead sarcophagus and fragments of the temple's ancient rood screen, offering a rare insight into the history of the world-famous cathedral currently under reconstruction after a devastating fire in 2019.

One of the first finds was a fully preserved anthropomorphic lead sarcophagus was found, which archeologists say probably belonged to a high dignitary and could date back to the 14th century.

“We were able to send a small camera inside which showed cloth remains, organic matter such as hair and plant remains,” said Christophe Besnier from France's National Archaeological Institute on Tuesday. “The fact that these plants are still there indicates that the contents have been very well-preserved.”

Notre Dame commissioned the excavation works inside the church as a precautionary measure ahead of the installation of a giant scaffolding needed to restore the around 100-metre high wooden roof ridge.