The smell of Egyptian mummies is revealing 2,000-year-old secrets

The distinctive smell of ancient mummies is helping scientists decode the secrets of Egyptian mummification. By analyzing tiny traces of chemicals in the air around mummy samples, researchers identified dozens of compounds linked to oils, resins, beeswax, and bitumen used during embalming. The chemical clues reveal that mummification grew increasingly complex over thousands of years. A study led by chemists at the University of Bristol found that the smell associated with mummies is not simply the result of aging or decay. Instead, it reflects a complex blend of substances used during embalming, along with preserved fabrics and m... [4231 chars]