The tomb of famed French poet Joachim du Bellay has been uncovered during restoration work at Notre-Dame Cathedral following the devastating 2019 fire. Archaeologists have identified a lead coffin beneath the transept, believed to hold the remains of du Bellay, who passed away in Paris in 1560 at approximately 37 years old.
The fire that ravaged Notre-Dame’s roof and spire has sparked a unique archaeological investigation, providing valuable insights into the cathedral’s past. The findings, including the lead coffin discovery, are set to be showcased in an exhibition opening in November, coinciding with the anticipated re-opening of the iconic landmark.
Joachim du Bellay, born around 1522 near Angers in western France, was a pioneering figure in the French literary movement known as La Pleiade, alongside Pierre de Ronsard. This circle of poets advocated for the use of the French language in literary works, moving away from the traditional Latin. Historical records indicated that du Bellay was buried in Notre-Dame, where he had served in a clerical position, but his final resting place remained unlocated until now.
Initial analysis of the skeleton within the lead coffin suggests it belonged to a man around 35 years of age, who had suffered from bone tuberculosis in his neck and head, and was an avid equestrian—having famously traveled from Paris to Rome on horseback.
Evidence indicates that du Bellay faced significant health challenges in his later years, including deafness and severe headaches, aligning with the findings of the skeletal analysis. However, questions remain regarding the location of the burial. One theory posits that du Bellay’s remains may have been relocated following the posthumous acclaim of his collected works.
Du Bellay’s legacy endures in French education, with several of his poems well-known, particularly “Heureux qui comme Ulysse” (Happy he who like Ulysses), which reflects on nostalgia for one’s childhood home.
