Archaeological dig beneath Notre Dame Cathedral unearths 1,700 years of Parisian history

Summary

Archaeologists are conducting a major excavation beneath the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, prompted by the 2019 fire and subsequent reconstruction. The dig, described as the 'dig of the century,' is unearthing 1,700 years of history, from Roman-era Paris 2,000 years ago to medieval artifacts. Among the finds are a fourth-century coin bearing Emperor Constantine's face and medieval pottery with undeciphered markings. The excavation is necessary before the square in front of the cathedral can be redesigned with trees and shade.