Researchers have discovered that ancient Egyptian mummies emit surprisingly pleasant scents, challenging the common perception of decayed remains. A team from University College London’s Institute for Sustainable Heritage, led by Dr. Cecilia Bembibre, conducted an olfactory analysis of nine mummies housed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, dating from approximately 1500 BC to AD 500.
The study employed both chemical analysis and human participants to evaluate the odors emitted by the mummies. Participants described the scents using terms such as “woody,” and “spicy.” These pleasant aromas are believed to originate from the resins and oils used during the embalming process, including pine and juniper.
Dr. Bembibre expressed surprise at the findings, noting that popular culture often associates mummies with unpleasant odors. “In films and books, terrible things happen to those who smell mummified bodies,” she remarked. “We were surprised at the pleasantness of them.”
The research also revealed that these scents could provide insights into the social status of the mummified individuals. The use of specific resins and oils, which were often costly and imported, suggests that pleasant smells were associated with purity and deities, while bad odors were signs of corruption and decay.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the preservation of mummified remains. By understanding the chemical compounds responsible for these pleasant aromas, conservators can develop better methods to protect and maintain these ancient artifacts. Additionally, the research opens the possibility of creating artificial “smellscapes” to enhance museum experiences, allowing visitors to engage with history through the sense of smell.
