Ancient mummies smell surprisingly pleasant, study reveals

Researchers studying the scent of ancient Egyptian mummies have discovered that, contrary to popular belief, they actually smell quite pleasant. 

Using both chemical analysis and human scent panels, the team evaluated odors from nine mummies, some up to 5,000 years old, kept at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Instead of the expected decaying smell, the mummies were found to have “woody,” “spicy,” and “sweet” aromas, with floral notes possibly coming from embalming resins like pine and juniper, AP reported.

The goal of the study was to understand how scent played a role in mummification, as oils and resins were used to preserve bodies and protect them for the afterlife. Researchers were also keen to see if signs of microbial degradation existed but found none, indicating the mummies were well-preserved.