A recent study has analyzed the scent of ancient Egyptian mummies, and the findings reveal that they are far less unpleasant than many might expect. So, what do these thousand-year-old mummies actually smell like?
A Surprisingly Pleasant Scent
After more than 3,000 years, one might assume that Egyptian mummies would have a terrible odor. However, research indicates otherwise. A study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society found that mummies retain relatively pleasant scents due to the aromatic oils and waxes used in the mummification process.
A team of olfactory experts analyzed the scents of nine mummies housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, some dating back to around 1539 BCE. By combining expert scent perception with chemical analysis, they discovered that most mummies emitted woody, spicy, and slightly sweet aromas rather than foul or decayed smells.
According to their findings, 78% of mummies had a woody scent, 67% exhibited spicy notes, and 56% gave off a mild sweetness. Only 33% showed signs of mustiness or rancid odors, while some even carried a scent similar to incense. Researchers described the overall scent profile as “moderately pleasant.”
Chemical Analysis Confirms Aromatic Compounds
Beyond human perception, the research team employed an “electronic nose” device to analyze volatile compounds released by the mummies. They identified the presence of pinene, limonene, and verbenone—compounds commonly found in pine resin, cedarwood, myrrh, frankincense, and other aromatic herbs such as musk, lavender, and eucalyptus.
Interestingly, the mummies on display exhibited stronger and more complex scents than those in storage. This is likely due to volatile compounds accumulating inside display cases, creating a blend of the original mummification materials and modern preservation substances such as pesticides, vegetable oils, and microbial deposits.
The Role of Scent in Cultural Heritage
The study suggests that the scent of mummies is an integral part of archaeological and cultural heritage, deserving of preservation alongside their physical appearance. This opens up a new avenue in mummy conservation, emphasizing not only visual integrity but also the “olfactory legacy” of these ancient artifacts.
This research challenges common assumptions about the smell of mummies and highlights how ancient embalming techniques helped preserve not just their appearance but also their distinct aromas, even after thousands of years.
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