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Dan Snow's History Hit

Dan Snow's History Hit

The Myths vs Reality of Mummification

Oct 22, 2026 · 44m

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On this episode

About this episode

From the elaborate burial rituals of Ancient Egypt to Victorian mummy unwrapping parties, mummification has fascinated humanity for centuries. But what is mummification really about? Because Hollywood, supernatural folklore and popular culture have muddied our understanding of the real history behind this burial practice. Dan is joined by Egyptologist and curator of Egypt and Sudan at the Manchester Museum to unravel (pun intended) the myths and misconceptions around Ancient Egyptian mummification and explore the morbid curiosity the Romans, Greeks and Victorians all had for this mysterious practice. Produced by Mariana Des Forges and edited by Natasha Hughes Sign up to History Hit for…