Smoke-dried bodies the oldest-known evidence of deliberate human mummification, study claims
A new scientific study has revealed what is believed to be the world’s oldest known evidence of intentional human mummification. Archaeologists discovered smoke-dried remains in Papua New Guinea that date back nearly 4,000 years, challenging long-held beliefs that deliberate mummification was largely unique to ancient Egypt. The findings suggest that communities in the Pacific region developed sophisticated techniques to preserve the dead using fire and smoke, long before similar practices were documented elsewhere. Researchers observed that the bodies were carefully treated, dried, and displayed, reflecting deep cultural and spiritual traditions. This discovery highlights that mummification was not an isolated practice but part of a broader human desire to honor and maintain connections with the deceased. The study provides valuable insights into the spiritual life, rituals, and technological skills of early societies, reshaping our understanding of global funerary practices and their cultural significance across ancient civilizations.
The Key points
- Archaeologists identified the world’s oldest deliberate mummification evidence.
- Remains were discovered in Papua New Guinea caves.
- The bodies were preserved through smoke drying techniques.
- Estimated age of mummies is nearly 4,000 years.
- The practice predates ancient Egyptian mummification traditions.
- Mummification shows cultural and spiritual respect for ancestors.
- Bodies were carefully prepared and positioned for display.
- Findings suggest advanced ritual knowledge in early Pacific societies.
- Research highlights mummification as a global human practice.
- Study changes understanding of prehistoric funerary customs worldwide.
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