Unearthing Secrets: The Burials Under Notre-Dame Cathedral
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Chapter 1: Discovering the Burials of Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame Cathedral conceals numerous enigmas. Earlier this year, archaeologists unearthed two lead sarcophagi dating back several centuries. After months of investigation, they were finally opened. Who were the individuals interred within this iconic Parisian landmark?
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In 2019, smoke billowed over the 4th district of Paris, momentarily halting the world. The Notre-Dame Cathedral was engulfed in flames. On April 15, just after 6 PM, this national treasure faced grave danger. Fortunately, swift firefighting efforts preserved many of the cathedral's artifacts, but the fire inflicted extensive damage, collapsing the roof, parts of the vaults, and the spire.
Two Lead Sarcophagi Opened
While the cause of the fire remains uncertain, scientists have unveiled other mysteries. In March 2022, during the cathedral's renovation, archaeologists discovered two lead sarcophagi, previously unknown to all. Eventually, researchers began to unravel this Notre-Dame enigma.
The sarcophagi were opened during recent investigations, allowing for the extraction and analysis of the remains. The first skeleton belonged to a prominent cleric who passed away in 1710. Researchers suggest he suffered from gout, a painful joint condition linked to poor diet.
The Cleric Behind Notre-Dame’s Restoration
The findings indicate that this individual led a life of luxury and inactivity. A plaque on the sarcophagus identified him as Antoine de la Porte, who died at the age of 83. According to an official report from the University of Toulouse, his remains were remarkably well-preserved.
De la Porte served as a canon of Notre-Dame in the late 17th and early 18th centuries and was interred where the transept intersects the nave, a location designated for the most distinguished individuals. He had pledged his wealth towards the restoration of Notre-Dame, particularly the choir area. A portrait of him, created by Jean Jouvenet in 1708, is now housed in the British Museum.
Who Lies in the Second Sarcophagus?
Identifying the individual in the second lead sarcophagus proved more challenging, as no identifying plaque was found. However, scientists determined that he was between 25 and 40 years old at the time of his death. Analysis revealed he endured a hard life, with pelvic bones indicating a history of horseback riding from a young age. Notably, most of his teeth were missing by the time he died.
Intriguingly, the sarcophagus contained traces of flowers and fabric remnants, suggesting the man underwent embalming—a rare practice in France typically reserved for the nobility. Despite being labeled the "horseman," he must have held some significance during his era, warranting burial at Notre-Dame.
Preliminary radiocarbon dating indicates he lived sometime between the 14th and 17th centuries. Archaeologist Christophe Besnier stated, “If he died in the latter half of the 16th century or the early 17th century, we may identify him from existing death records. However, if he died earlier, his identity may remain a mystery.”
Scientists anticipate further research will shed more light on the lives and deaths of these two men. This discovery is already being hailed as one of “extraordinary scientific importance.”
Source: University of Toulouse
The first video titled "Ancient sarcophagus found under Notre-Dame cathedral amid restorations" delves into the fascinating details surrounding the recent archaeological finds, exploring the significance of the sarcophagi and their implications for history.
The second video, "Notre Dame's dead poet mystery close to solution," discusses ongoing efforts to uncover the identities and stories behind the remains discovered, shedding light on the historical context of these individuals.