Ancient Egyptian Mummies' Surprising Scents Discovered After Millennia

In a groundbreaking study, scientists have confirmed that mummies from ancient Egypt still emit surprisingly pleasant scents even after 5,000 years in sarcophagi, including "woody," "spicy," and "sweet" notes. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, emerged from the examination of nine mummies, led by a team from University College London and the University of Ljubljana. Using a non-invasive method, researchers extracted and analyzed the fragrances while preserving the integrity of the mummies.

Dr. Cecilia Bembibre emphasized the importance of these odors in ancient Egyptian mummification practices, where oils, waxes, and balms were used to prepare bodies for the afterlife. Notably, the study highlights the connection between smell and social status, suggesting that the fragrances could help identify the mummies' social classes. Museum visitors will soon be able to experience these scents firsthand, providing a unique sensory perspective on ancient history and the mummification process. This discovery holds promise for future conservation efforts, enabling specialists to enhance the preservation of these historical remains.