An enduring mystery surrounding a body found buried beneath Notre Dame following the disastrous 2019 fire that destroyed the church may finally be put to rest, Le Monde and La Croix International reported.

The exact whereabouts of the tomb of Joachim de Bellay, a renowned Renaissance poet, has puzzled researchers for many years.

New research suggests the sarcophagus' occupant, previously known only as "the horseman," is Joachim du Bellay, a French Renaissance poet who died in 1560

Experts working with the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research believe they have identified remains found beneath the famed cathedral.

The body of the mysterious “horseman,” whose sarcophagus was unearthed two years ago during preventive excavations at the cathedral, might belong to the famous poet. His grave has been sought since the 18th century.

During excavations of Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2022, two sarcophagi were unearthed. The remains of one were quickly identified, while the others remained unknown, until now.

The mystery behind who owned the body that was found inside a lead coffin buried underneath Notre Dame has been solved at last.