Fabrics and hair
“The discovery of this sarcophagus will allow us to better understand funeral practices and rites” of the Middle Ages, explained Dominique García, president of the National Institute of Archaeological Research.
They are not the first human remains found in Notre Dame, which since its construction has served as a graveyard, especially those responsible for the temple, or religious personalities.
But never before has such a well-preserved sarcophagus been found, these experts agree.
Archaeologists have so far been able to introduce a mini endoscopic camera inside the sarcophagus. “You can glimpse pieces of fabric, hair and above all a pillow of leaves on top of the head, a well-known phenomenon” when religious leaders were buried, explained Christophe Besnier, the archaeologist responsible for the excavation.
“The fact that these plant elements are still inside shows a priori a very good state of conservation” of the body, added this expert.
the unknown character
At the moment it is unknown who the deceased could be, although the location suggests that he was an important character, at the dawn of the life of a legendary temple.
“It is a great emotion, this cathedral represents the whole history of Paris, and being in front of these vestiges is extremely impressive“Declared the Minister of Culture, Roselyne Bachelot, at the foot of the sarcophagus.
Notre Dame began to be built around 1163, and the works lasted two centuries. In the mid-19th century, the architect Viollet-Le-Duc directed a major reconstruction, equipping the façade with its famous gargoyles and the spire that crowned the roof.
Experts must hurry, because they will only be able to dig until March 25. Then the reconstruction of the roof must continue, so that the cathedral can be reopened to the public in 2024explained the person in charge of the work, the retired general Jean-Louis Georgelin.
“My job is to control the deadlines and reopen this cathedral in 2024, and all the elements have to be weighed. A balance is always necessary,” he said.