Mummies of Ancient Egypt Reveal Surprising Scents After Millennia

Researchers from UCL and the University of Ljubljana discovered that ancient Egyptian mummies still carry enjoyable scents, revealing insights into their mummification process and potential applications in museum conservation efforts.

Recently, a groundbreaking study has unveiled an astonishing fact about ancient Egyptian mummies: despite their 5,000-year slumber, they continue to emit surprisingly pleasant aromas. Researchers delved into the olfactory properties of nine different mummies and found that, while the intensity of the scents varied, common descriptors included "woody," "spicy," and "sweet."

Cecilia Bembibre, a key member of the research team, expressed a desire to share this unique sensory experience with the public, planning to recreate the mummified scents for exhibition at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. During the mummification process, ancient Egyptians placed a considerable emphasis on using aromatic oils, waxes, and balms to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. Dr. Bembibre noted a stark contrast between common film depictions of mummies and the better reality of their scents: "In films and books, terrible things happen to those who smell mummified bodies. We were surprised at the pleasantness of them."

The study, which appeared in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, utilized a non-invasive method to extract scents from the sarcophagi. Researchers carefully inserted a tiny tube to analyze the fragrances without disturbing the mummies themselves. Dr. Bembibre emphasized the importance of non-destructive techniques in heritage science, which enables the discovery of new insights while preserving the artifacts.

The initiative has been hailed as an innovative approach to connecting people with ancient history, prompting academic allies like Ally Louks from the University of Cambridge to celebrate the potential for emotional responses elicited through scent. "To engage your nose produces a strong emotional and physical reaction," she commented.

Matija Strlič, another researcher on the project, suggested that these scents can even offer clues about the social status of the individuals involved, potentially allowing for a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian societal structures. "We believe that this approach is potentially of huge interest to other types of museum collections," Strlič remarked.

Beyond enriching visitor experiences, this groundbreaking research holds promise for mummy conservationists as well. By employing gas chromatography, the team was able to isolate various components of the ancient scents, revealing indicators of potential mummification deterioration caused by animal fats in the embalming process. This advancement paves the way for "practical interventions" in preserving mummies, ensuring these historical treasures are safeguarded for future generations to learn from and appreciate.