Watch The Oldest Mummies in the World
- 2013
- 50 min
The Oldest Mummies in the World is an intriguing documentary that offers insight into the world of ancient Egypt and the mummies that have been excavated from the sands of the Sahara. This film recounts the discoveries of a team of archeologists and historians as they unravel the mysteries of the oldest mummies found in the world. The narrative begins with the story of the first mummy that was discovered in Egypt by accident. The corpse of a man buried in the sand was preserved over thousands of years, thanks to the natural conditions of the Sahara desert. The body was uncovered by workmen building a railroad across the Sahara to transport British troops in the late nineteenth century. This led to a new era of Egyptology and sparked an interest in the country's ancient history.
The film then goes onto delve into the intricate process of mummification, which was a sacred ritual that was performed by skilled craftsmen of society. The process involved removing the internal organs and preserving the body with linen shrouds, oils, and spices, and a final burial in a tomb. The documentary explores the complex details of the process and how different classes and periods of society prepared their dead.
In particular, the film focuses on the mummies of the first Pharaohs of Egypt, including Narmer, the first king to unite the land of Egypt, and Menes, his successor. These royal mummies were found in the famed Temple of Abydos in Upper Egypt. This temple was a site of pilgrimage for thousands of years and kept these ancient rulers safe until their rediscovery by the archaeological team.
Alongside the royal mummies, other notable figures are highlighted, such as Imhotep, the architect and physician whose tomb was discovered by chance in the 20th century. The film delves into the methods used to unlock the mysteries of his tomb and how it changed historians' perception of ancient Egyptian life.
One of the most surprising revelations in the film is the insight gained into the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians through their mummified pets. The documentary takes a fascinating look at how the Egyptians mummified their pets, such as cats, jackals, and dogs, and even monkeys. The film highlights how these animals were viewed as sacred beings in ancient Egypt and were often buried alongside their owners.
The Oldest Mummies in the World also highlights the incredible technological advancements in modern-day mummification techniques. The film takes viewers inside the laboratories where scientists are working to understand the genetic makeup of the ancient bodies and what this can tell us about their lives. Through advanced CT scanning, experts have been able to access the internal anatomy of mummies without destroying the mummified remains. This has enabled a deeper understanding of the lifestyles of our ancient forefathers.
Overall, The Oldest Mummies in the World is a fascinating documentary that offers an in-depth exploration of the world of ancient Egypt and the groundbreaking discoveries that continue to be made. The film gives viewers a unique insight into the lives of the first Pharaohs and highlights how we can learn from the past. The film is beautifully shot, and the insights from the experts featured only add to the intrigue behind this fascinating historical period. Anyone with an interest in ancient history, Egyptology, or even modern medical technology will find this film a captivating watch that is both enlightening and engaging.