Science Friday How Archaeologists Try To Smell, Hear, And Taste The Past
Oct 8, 2025
Sam Kean, a science writer and author of Dinner with King Tut, dives into the fascinating world of experimental archaeology. He shares his wild adventures in recreating ancient life—from brain tanning and DIY mummification to crafting 75,000-year-old bedding. Sam humorously recounts his urine-tanning mishap and the cleverness behind ancient practices like Roman concrete and authentic Egyptian sourdough baking. Through hands-on experiences, he unveils the creativity and resilience of our ancestors, reshaping traditional views of archaeology.
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Sensory Reconstruction Reveals New Knowledge
- Experimental archaeology recreates senses of the past by making and using ancient objects and foods.
- Sam Kean says it yields sensory, experiential insights missing from conventional digs.
Hands-On Tanning Was Grueling
- Sam Kean describes brain-tanning a deer hide and feeling frustrated, hot, and bitten by flies.
- He says the tedium and discomfort taught him how difficult ancient crafts were.
Failed Urine Tanning Experiment
- Kean tried urine-tanning salmon and called it a spectacular failure that smelled awful.
- He still values attempting the method despite neighbors' likely displeasure.
