The Hidden Stories of Mummy Smells: Science, Museums, and Preservation

For centuries, mummies have captivated the imagination, symbolizing ancient rituals and mysteries.

Now, thanks to groundbreaking research led by Professor Matija Strlič and his team, we’re discovering that mummies have another story to tell—through their smells.

By analyzing the odors of nine ancient Egyptian mummies, researchers are uncovering secrets about embalming practices, cultural heritage, and even modern conservation.

The Science of Smelling Mummies

Using advanced techniques like gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-olfactometry (GC-MS-O) combined with trained human sniffers, the team identified a range of odors described as “woody,” “spicy,” “sweet,” and occasionally “rancid.”

These smells come from embalming materials such as pine resin, frankincense, and myrrh, as well as microbial activity or modern conservation treatments.

The study revealed that stronger or more pleasant aromas often correlate with higher-quality embalming practices, suggesting the social status of the deceased.

To achieve this level of precision, the researchers trained human sniffers in a rigorous three-month program.

During this training, participants learned to recognize and describe specific scents with consistency and accuracy.

This process involved exposure to a wide range of smells, calibration exercises to fine-tune their sensitivity, and repeated testing to ensure reliability.

These sniffers became an essential part of the study, providing qualitative insights that complement high-tech instruments.

Smellscapes in Museums: A New Way to Engage

One of the most exciting outcomes of this research is its application in museums. By recreating the scents of ancient mummies and embalming materials, museums are now offering visitors a unique olfactory experience.

These “smellscapes” allow people to connect with history on a sensory level—bringing to life the aromas that surrounded ancient Egyptian rituals.

Visitors can smell scents like pine resin or frankincense while learning about their cultural significance in mummification.

This approach not only enhances visitor engagement but also makes exhibitions more inclusive.

For example, visually impaired individuals can now experience history through smell, creating a more accessible way to explore ancient cultures.

The immersive nature of these exhibits evokes emotional and physical responses that deepen the connection between visitors and the past.

Odors as Conservation Tools

Beyond enriching museum experiences, the study of mummy smells has practical applications in preservation.

Certain odors can indicate microbial activity or chemical changes that signal degradation.

For instance, a musty smell might reveal mold growth deep within textiles before it becomes visible on the surface.

By identifying these early warning signs through smell analysis, conservators can intervene promptly to protect fragile artifacts.

This non-invasive method also helps conservators monitor environmental conditions in museums.

By understanding how odors change over time, they can adjust factors like humidity or temperature to slow down decay. In essence, studying mummy smells not only preserves artifacts but also safeguards their olfactory heritage for future generations.

The Cultural Significance of Smell

In ancient Egypt, smell was deeply tied to spirituality and purity. Pleasant aromas were associated with deities and the afterlife, while foul odors symbolized corruption and decay.

Embalming materials like myrrh and cedar oil were chosen not only for their preservative properties but also for their symbolic meanings.

By analyzing these scents today, researchers are uncovering insights into ancient beliefs and practices.

Bridging Past and Present

The study of mummy smells represents a fascinating intersection of science, history, and sensory experience.

From training sniffers to creating museum smellscapes and aiding conservation efforts, it opens new doors to understanding ancient Egypt while preserving its legacy for future generations.

Through smell—a sense often overlooked—we’re discovering an entirely new way to connect with the past.