In northeastern France, an ancient stone sarcophagus from the Roman Era, dating back thousands of years, has been unearthed, yielding unexpected treasures.

The discovery occurred in Reims on September 19, within a necropolis that had been revealed towards the end of 2022, as reported by the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (Inrap).

The sarcophagus, crafted from limestone, boasts dimensions of 3.3 feet in height, 5.4 feet in length, and 2.6 feet in width. It is sealed with a 1,700-pound lid secured by iron pegs encased in lead.

Archaeologists initially conducted X-rays on the sarcophagus and then utilized an endoscopic camera. Inside, they discovered the skeleton of a woman accompanied by various items, including a mirror, Newsweek reported.

The unearthing of this sarcophagus represents the latest addition to the growing collection of finds at the Rue Soussillon necropolis.

This site continues to unveil historical treasures, and archaeologists remain eager to uncover additional artifacts that have managed to evade both looting and destruction across the centuries.

Written by staff