Scientists use scanners to study Egyptian mummies and solve 3,000-year-old mystery!

Recently, thanks to advanced scanning technology, American scientists have clarified many mysteries surrounding the mummy of Meresamun - an ancient Egyptian priestess who lived more than 3,000 years ago.

Journey to discover the mummy of Meresamun

Meresamun , meaning 'Amun Loves Her', was a priestess who lived around 800 BC in the ancient city of Thebes. She not only performed religious roles such as singing hymns and performing divination in the temple, but was also a highly respected and noble person. Meresamun's mummy is now housed at the Oriental Museum at the University of Chicago, after being purchased from Egypt by the renowned Egyptologist James Henry Breasted in 1920.

Thanks to modern X-ray technology, scientists have had the opportunity to explore Meresamun's life in more depth. Detailed images from the scanning device show that she was about 1.68m tall and died between the ages of 20 and 30. Notably, inside the mummy's eye sockets, researchers discovered precious stones - a sign of her noble status. This data not only provides information about her appearance but also sheds light on the lifestyle of a priestess in ancient Egyptian society.

Scientists prepare to scan the mummy.

Ancient Egyptian civilization always brings special appeal with its long history, unique culture and mysterious heritages that have not been deciphered. In particular, the art of mummification is a special testament to the superior technical level of the ancient Egyptians, and at the same time an endless source of inspiration for archaeologists and historians.

Meresamun's Life and Health

By analyzing the scans, scientists discovered that Meresamun's diet was healthy and varied. Her main foods included grains, fruits, and fish – common sources of nutrition during that time. However, the use of a stone mill to grind flour caused her teeth to be significantly worn down, a common feature of many ancient Egyptian mummies. This shows the impact of food processing techniques on human dental health.

Although scans show that Meresamun was in good health, the cause of her death remains a mystery. Researchers have found no clear evidence of illness or trauma, raising the question of whether her death was due to factors beyond the ability of modern technology to explain.

Scientists discovered that Meresamun's diet was very healthy and varied. (Illustration photo_.

Application of modern scanning technology

The Meresamun mummy is not the only case where modern scanning technology has been applied. At the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, scientists have scanned 26 other mummies to create detailed 3D images of their skeletons, artifacts, and coffin structures. This method not only helps preserve artifacts, but also allows the public to see and learn more about ancient Egyptian funeral customs.

Another example is the mummy of 'Pa-Ib' – a woman who lived around 2,000 BC. Scans have revealed that the mysterious object encased inside her body may have been a mummified bird, reflecting the Egyptian belief that mummified birds would bring blessings from the gods in the afterlife.

Advanced scanning technology has shed light on many mysteries surrounding Egyptian mummies. (Illustration photo).

Mummification – the bridge between life and the afterlife

The ancient Egyptians believed that the soul remained in the body after death, and mummification helped protect that soul on its journey to the afterlife. The mummification process lasted about 70 days and involved drying the body with natron salt, wrapping it in linen, and placing amulets or prayers on the body. The upper classes often had elaborate and lavish mummification rituals, with elaborate artifacts and coffins.

A prime example is 'Lady Chenet-aa,' another famous mummy at the Field Museum of Natural History. Her funeral was lavish, with expensive linens and an elaborate coffin. This demonstrates the strong social stratification of ancient Egyptian funeral rites.

New step in archaeological research

Advanced scanning technology opens a new door in archaeological research. (Illustration photo).

Beyond just studying mummies, scientists are also conducting other studies to learn more about ancient Egyptian civilization. Dr. Zahi Hawass, one of the leading archaeologists, recently announced his hope to determine the identity of Nefertiti – one of Egypt's most powerful queens – through DNA testing. If successful, this would be a major breakthrough in shedding light on the history of the New Kingdom.

The findings from advanced scanning technology have not only solved some of the 3,000-year-old mystery of Meresamun's mummy, but also opened a new door in archaeological research. From health and diet to beliefs and funeral customs, every detail contributes to our deeper understanding of the lives of the ancient Egyptians. With the continuous development of science, there is reason to believe that more secrets about this civilization will continue to be revealed, providing a more comprehensive view of one of the greatest cultures in human history.