Beneath the busy streets of contemporary Paris, archaeologists have made a remarkable find—the ancient Roman necropolis of Saint Jacques, a burial ground lost to time for centuries. This excavation site, located near the Port-Royal train station, has revealed a treasure trove of artifacts and remains that illuminate 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 uncovered a variety of treasures, including coins, ceramics, and animal remains. Among the most significant discoveries 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 found, providing a tangible connection to the past. One particularly fascinating discovery was a skeleton with a coin placed in its mouth—a practice known as “Charon’s obol,” believed to be 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. Additionally, the coins found with some bodies offer 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 provides a rare opportunity to explore a period of history that has long remained obscure. 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 illuminate a forgotten chapter of Parisian history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once walked the streets of ancient Lutetia. As analysis continues, this extraordinary discovery may reveal secrets long buried beneath the modern metropolis, enriching our understanding of the city’s rich and storied past.
