Scientists Have Found the World’s Oldest Known Mummies — and They Are Thousands of Years Older Than the Ones in Egypt

Scientists Unearth World’s Oldest Mummies in Asia

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have uncovered the world’s oldest known mummies in Asia, pushing the boundaries of ancient human preservation even further back in time. The findings, published in a recent study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, reveal a fascinating glimpse into ancient burial practices in Southeast Asia and China.

According to the study, these newly discovered mummies date back between 4,000 to 12,000 years, making them significantly older than the well-known mummies of Ancient Egypt. The mummies found in Egypt typically date back around 4,500 years, while the oldest mummies in northern Chile are approximately 7,000 years old, as outlined by the researchers.

Unlike the traditional extended supine burial postures seen in many ancient civilizations, these newly discovered mummies were found in tightly crouched or squatting positions, some even showing signs of post-mortem dismemberment. This unique burial style indicates a distinct cultural approach to death and afterlife rituals in the region.

The scientists working on the project suggest that the bodies were artificially mummified through a process of smoke-drying over fire. This technique, which involved smoking the remains before burial, allowed for the contorted positions observed in the mummified bodies, positions that would have been impossible to achieve naturally.

The burial methods observed in these ancient sites bear similarities to practices found in Indigenous Australian societies and some regions of the New Guinea Highlands. The study’s authors noted that smoking the remains over fire for an extended period was a common method of artificial mummification in these regions.

Signs of charring on certain parts of the skeletons further support the theory that the bodies were exposed to fire before being buried. This unique preservation method sheds light on the diverse mummification practices that existed across different ancient cultures and regions.

Lead author of the study, Hsiao-chun Hung from Australian National University, expressed her astonishment at the findings, highlighting the longevity and widespread adoption of the smoke-dried mummification process. The team hopes to expand their research to investigate burial sites in Asia dating as far back as 20,000 years, in search of further insights into ancient mummification practices.

The discovery of these ancient mummies challenges our understanding of ancient civilisations and their approach to death and preservation. This significant find offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about the diverse and intricate customs of ancient societies in Asia, shedding light on their beliefs and practices regarding the afterlife.

As researchers delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding these ancient mummies, the scientific community eagerly anticipates further revelations that may reshape our knowledge of human history and the ancient world. The study serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that have existed throughout history, each with its unique traditions and practices surrounding life and death.