Notre Dame's Reopening: A Beacon Amidst France's Political Turmoil

During the renovation of Notre Dame Cathedral following the 2019 fire, archaeologists discovered over 1,000 historical artifacts beneath its floor, including artwork fragments, graves, and a lead sarcophagus possibly belonging to poet Joachim du Bellay. The findings, which include life-sized limestone statues and a 13th-century rood screen, provide new insights into medieval construction techniques, such as the use of iron clamps and oak beams. This excavation, enabled by French preventative archaeology laws, has enriched the understanding of Notre Dame's history and construction.