Ancient Egyptian mummy has pleasant aroma: researcher claims

Researchers have made a surprising discovery regarding the scents emitted by ancient Egyptian mummies, revealing that these well-preserved remains actually exude pleasant aromas. This finding diverges significantly from the common perception of mummies as having foul odors, often depicted in popular culture.

A study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society analyzed the scents from nine mummies housed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, some dating back up to 5,000 years. The research team employed both chemical analysis and sensory evaluations conducted by trained human sniffers. They identified woody, spicy, and sweet notes, along with floral undertones likely derived from pine and juniper resins used during the embalming process126.

Cecilia Bembibre, director of research at University College London’s Institute for Sustainable Heritage, expressed surprise at the pleasantness of the aromas, stating, “In films and books, terrible things happen to those who smell mummified bodies”16. The study emphasized that scent played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian mummification practices, which were primarily reserved for pharaohs and nobility. The use of oils, waxes, and balms was intended not only for preservation but also to signify purity and divine connection, as bad odors were associated with decay and corruption249.

The researchers took care to ensure that the detected aromas were genuinely from the mummies rather than contaminants from pesticides or microbial degradation. Matija Strlič, a chemistry professor involved in the study, noted that their non-invasive methods allowed them to assess preservation conditions without disturbing the mummies themselves. He likened their findings to discovering a “Holy Grail” for understanding ancient burial practices124.

While Barbara Huber from the Max Planck Institute acknowledged that the scents detected today may not reflect those present at the time of mummification due to changes over millennia, she highlighted the importance of this research for future conservation efforts13. The study opens up possibilities for museums to recreate these scents through “smellscapes,” enhancing visitor experiences and deepening understanding of ancient Egyptian culture29.