Discover the wonder of Egyptian mummification as we unravel the secrets of these carefully preserved corpses

Mummification was an embalming process undertaken by the ancient Egyptians. They believed that by preserving a body, its soul could live on in the afterlife. Embalmers offered various packages, which included a basic, standard and luxury version. Even so, it was only the rich that could afford to mummify their dead and thereafter place them in an elaborate tomb. Ordinary civilians were buried in pit graves, and some of these bodies were naturally dried.

Mummification was an elaborate and lengthy process that took 70 days. Violation of the body was abhorred, however, so the first incision performed on the corpse was made by a ‘scapegoat’, who was then ritually stoned and chased from the embalming chamber.

Afterwards the intestines, lungs, stomach and liver were removed - these were mummified and placed in special containers called canopic jars. The brain was pulverised with a long, narrow instrument and drained through the nose or the back of the skull. The heart, which was then known as the seat of learning, was left inside the body. During the mummification process the priests would venerate the dead; they would light incense, recite prayers and invoke aid and protection from ancient Egyptian gods. Once cleansed, the body was then ready to be dried.

The ancient Egyptians placed the body in natron salts, which absorbed all its moisture. After a period of 40 days it was removed and packed with herbs, oils and spices, which were known to cleanse and preserve the cavities. If extra body parts were needed the corpse was equipped with false wooden limbs, or eyes made of obsidian. It was then ready for bandaging. Each limb was carefully tended to. Fingers and toes were treated individually, and golden caps were placed on the nails. In order to protect it, a large number of amulets were left on specific parts of the body. Often garlands of leaves or berries, which were thought to have rejuvenating properties, were placed around the neck. The hair was dressed with oils and jewellery. Due to heat and lice the ancient Egyptians shaved their heads, so elaborate wigs - which were made of human hair - were placed on the deceased. Make-up was applied, and the body was dressed in fine clothes and adornments. While women were buried with combs and pottery, men were armed with daggers or swords. These were placed either on the body or within the wrappings.