The research team explained that smell was a key consideration for the ancient Egyptians during the mummification process, as pleasant odors were associated with the bodies of deities and their purity, while foul odors were considered indications of a body’s corruption and decay.

The team’s approach could inspire museums to entertain visitors with odorous features such as smellscapes. In fact, the researchers now plan to reconstruct the smell of ancient mummified bodies in order to share this nontraditional approach to studying Egyptian mummies, as well as highlight an ancient olfactory heritage.

Ancient Egyptian mummified bodies smell 'woody,' 'spicy' and 'sweet', finds a new study led by researchers from UCL and the University of Ljubljana, revealing new details about mummification practices.

Ancient Egyptian mummies smell "woody," "spicy" and "sweet", according to researchers who took part in a unique new study.

Ancient Egyptian mummified bodies smell ‘woody, spicy and sweet’, a study has found. It is the first time that the odour of mummified bodies have been systematically explored. The research, led by scientists from University College London and the University of Ljubljana,