Additional Coverage:
Local Researchers Discover Pleasant Aroma of 5,000-Year-Old Mummies
A team of scientists has made a surprising discovery about ancient Egyptian mummies: they smell good. After examining nine mummies, researchers described the aroma as a pleasant mix of “woody,” “spicy,” and “sweet.”
The team, comprised of researchers from a local university and a university in Slovenia, developed a non-destructive method to capture the scent. Using a small tube inserted into the sarcophagus, they were able to analyze the aroma without disturbing the mummy inside.
The pleasant smell is attributed to the oils, waxes, and balms used in the mummification process. These fragrant substances played a key role in preparing the deceased for the afterlife.
The researchers plan to recreate the mummy scent for an exhibit at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. They hope this will offer visitors a unique sensory experience of ancient Egyptian culture.
One expert believes this “innovative” approach to history will evoke strong emotional and physical reactions. The sense of smell, she notes, was integral to ancient Egyptian life, encompassing social, religious, and personal practices.
The research team also believes the specific scents may indicate a mummy’s social class. They suggest this technique could be applied to other museum collections.
Beyond the sensory experience, the discovery has implications for mummy preservation. By identifying odors related to decomposition, conservators can better protect these ancient remains for future generations.