Life-sized heads and torsos of limestone statues, including one of Christ, were also unearthed. A 13th-century jubé or rood screen that previously separated the choir and sanctuary from public view was among the more significant architectural finds.

Five years on, investigators are still trying to solve the mystery of what started the blaze at the French religious and cultural landmark.

Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral has some surprising stories to tell before it reopens this weekend after five years of restoration.