Stuff You Should Know Selects: How Mummies Work
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Oct 28, 2023 Uncover the ancient art of mummification, where preservation meets culture! Explore how techniques varied from the elaborate Egyptian methods to lesser-known global practices. Learn about the symbolic importance of organs and the eerie allure of mummies during the 1920s, including Howard Carter's famed discovery. Delve into fascinating myths, quirky experiments, and intriguing listener anecdotes that add a humorous twist to the history of mummies and their significance!
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Mummies and Fossils
- Mummies are formed through desiccation, similar to some fossils.
- This natural preservation inspired Egyptians to develop mummification techniques.
Ötzi the Iceman
- Ötzi the Iceman, a natural mummy found in the Italian Alps, is remarkably well-preserved.
- Even his tattoos are still visible, offering insights into the Copper Age.
Sand as a Preservative
- Sand is an excellent natural preservative due to its ability to wick away moisture.
- This desiccation inhibits bacterial growth, preserving the body's tissues.