A Forgotten Burial Ground Rediscovered
Underneath the bustling streets of modern-day Paris, archaeologists have stumbled upon a remarkable discovery – the long-lost necropolis of Saint Jacques, an ancient Roman burial ground that had been lost to time for centuries. The excavation site, situated near the Port-Royal train station, has yielded a wealth of invaluable artifacts and remains that shed light on the lives and customs of the Gallo-Roman inhabitants of Lutetia, the predecessor of Paris.
A Glimpse into the Past
As the excavation progressed, archaeologists unearthed a trove of treasures, including coins, ceramics, and animal remains. Among the most significant finds were the skeletal remains of men, women, and children, some adorned with jewelry, hairpins, and belts. Nails from their wooden coffins and fragments of their shoes were also discovered, offering a tangible connection to the past.
One particularly intriguing discovery was a skeleton with a coin placed in its mouth – a practice known as “Charon’s obol,” believed to serve as a bribe for Hades’ ferryman, Charon, to ensure safe passage across the river Styx into the underworld.
Sacrificial Rituals and Funerary Customs
The presence of a complete pig skeleton and other animal remains suggests that the necropolis may have been a site for sacrificial rituals to appease the ancient Gods. Furthermore, the coins found with some bodies provide insight into the funerary customs of the Gallo-Roman people, reflecting their beliefs and practices surrounding the afterlife.
Uncovering a Lost Chapter
The rediscovery of the Saint Jacques necropolis offers a rare opportunity to delve into a period of history that has long remained shrouded in mystery. As archaeologists continue to analyze the artifacts and remains, they hope to gain valuable insights into the life, health, and cultural practices of the Parisii tribe, who inhabited Lutetia under Roman rule.
According to Dominique Garcia, president of France’s National Institute of Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP), “This will allow us to understand the life of Parisii through their funeral rites, as well as their health by studying their DNA.”
A Treasure Trove of Knowledge
The excavation of the Saint Jacques necropolis promises to shed light on a forgotten chapter of Parisian history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who walked the streets of ancient Lutetia. As the analysis continues, this remarkable discovery may reveal secrets long buried beneath the modern metropolis, enriching our understanding of the city’s rich and storied past.
