The Notre-Dame Cathedral has just been renovated — and it's a big hit — but the work is far from finished in the surroundings. On the plaza, archaeological excavations are underway. These are happening just before the project to green up the square even more by 2028.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Uncovering the History of Paris
What lies beneath the forecourt of Notre-Dame ? What secrets does Paris still hide ? That's what these archaeological digs will help reveal. Spanning 30 meters long and four meters deep, it is being conducted under the scientific direction of Camille Colonna.
The removal of the concrete slab last January has already allowed the discovery of a mysterious tomb over 4000 years old, which will soon be opened to the public in less than an hour from Paris!
Major discoveries. Metal pieces, ceramic fragments, portions of walls… “These aren’t treasures like gold ingots, but each item has great scientific value,” explains Hugo Cador, an archaeologist with the City of Paris. “This material helps to reconstruct daily life from that era and to characterize the different occupations: elite residences, simple homes, places of worship, and commerce,” he adds.
Three archaeological excavation sites
The excavations began in January 2026 by the Archaeological Pole of the City of Paris, following the recommendations of the Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs of Île-de-France. They are taking place alongside excavations in the courtyards of the Hôtel-Dieu and those in the courtyard of the Mai of the Palais de Justice.
— the first phase took place between August and November 2025. In this phase, certainly medieval burials as well as a burial area were discovered. Laboratory analyses are necessary to accurately determine their original era. This research brings to light the history of Paris and its inhabitants for over 2,000 years.Voir cette publication sur Instagram