Under Notre Dame Cathedral, a 'Dig of the Century' Unearths 1,700 Years of History

PARIS (AP) — Beneath the scorched stone of Notre Dame Cathedral, archaeologists have uncovered a treasure trove of history spanning 1,700 years, in what experts are calling the 'dig of the century.' The excavation, prompted by the devastating 2019 fire, has revealed layers of Parisian life from the medieval era to the Roman period. Among the finds are a lead sarcophagus from the 14th century, fragments of a medieval rood screen, and traces of ancient structures predating the cathedral.

The dig, which took place before reconstruction began, has provided unprecedented insight into the site's evolution from a Roman settlement to a Gothic masterpiece. 'We knew there was history here, but the scale and preservation are extraordinary,' said lead archaeologist Christophe Besnier.

The discoveries will be studied and preserved, with some items potentially displayed in a future museum. The excavation underscores the resilience of Notre Dame, which is set to reopen in December 2024 after extensive restoration.