Ironically, it is actually far easier for us archaeologists to investigate the monument now than it was before the fire. Although the fire released a lot of lead, making it necessary for researchers to don protective clothing and abide by procedures to avoid lead toxicity, we no longer face the obstacles presented by floods of tourists on the site, and materials damaged by the fire are now more available for analysis. Together, we have learned a lot about the building, its materials, and the possibilities for reconstruction.

~ Maxime L’Héritier, from Archaeology in the Ashes of Notre Dame

But, metaphorically, a silver lining. Clearly some good is coming out of the fire at Notre Dame. What an amazing layering of history there.

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