Notre Dame Preservers To Open Mysterious Sarcophagus Found Under Cathedral

Last month, it was revealed that archaeologists had uncovered numerous artifacts and tombs under Notre Dame following the devastating fire, among which was a “completely preserved, human-shaped sarcophagus” that seems to date back to the 14th century. 

Now, the team behind the excavation has said it will be opening the sarcophagus “very soon,” after an endoscopic camera showed that it contained the top half of a skeleton, a pillow, some fabric, and unidentified objects. 

According to CNET, it’s believed the scientists will be able to identify the age of the skeleton through carbon dating, and may even be able to find out its gender, who could have been notable during the era as being buried within the Notre Dame conferred high status. 

ARTnews noted that, as per INRAP—France’s national archaeological research institute—after the body has been exhumed “in compliance” with the country’s laws, it will be returned as an “anthropological asset” once the team has examined the remains. 

As we mark the third anniversary of the tragic fire that devastated the landmark cathedral, could its depths soon interesting secrets from its storied history?

[via CNET and ARTnews, cover image via Espiegle | Dreamstime.com]