Archaeologists have identified a body found in a lead coffin underground in Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris after a 2019 fire. Extensive analysis of the remains points to Renaissance poet Joachim du Bellay.
There are two lead tombs at the site in total. In 2022, archaeologists determined that one of them contained the remains of Antoine de la Porte — an important priest who died in 1710, aged 83.
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The identification of the second body was more complex. The research team dubbed it “The Knight.” The previously mysterious features of the bones suggest that their owner was an avid horseman.
Identification of the body of Joachim du Bellay
After extensive research, archaeologists concluded that the remains belonged to the poet Joachim du Bellay. He died in Paris in 1560, aged 37, after serving as a minor clerical officer in the cathedral.
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Clues, such as medical history and the individual’s estimated age at death, led scientists to believe it was Du Bellay.
Joachim du Bellay was born in Anjou, a commune 65 km from Lyon. Anthropologist Eric Crubezy, who participated in the investigation, told the local press that the poet used to spend time in Paris with his uncle.
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Du Bellay left a lasting legacy in Renaissance poetry, as he founded the group La Pléiade, with Pierre de Ronsard. The group was renowned for their works in French, rather than the traditional Latin of the time. To this day, French schools teach Du Bellay’s poetry.
