πΊ Mummification Process
70-day process Β· Step by step Β· Canopic jars Β· Afterlife beliefs Β· Grades 3β6
π₯ Preparation (Days 1β4)
WashingThe body was washed with palm wine and Nile water in a special tent called the ibu
Brain removalEmbalmers removed the brain through the nose using a hooked tool β Egyptians didn't think the brain was important!
Organ removalInternal organs were removed through a cut in the left side β only the heart was left in place
π« Canopic Jars
4 jarsEach organ was placed in its own special jar protected by a different god
Imsety (human)Protected the liver
Hapy (baboon)Protected the lungs
Duamutef (jackal)Protected the stomach
Qebehsenuef (falcon)Protected the intestines
π§ Drying (Days 4β44)
NatronThe body was packed inside and out with natron β a natural salt that dries out all moisture
40 daysThe body sat in natron for 40 days until it was completely dried out
ShapeThe natron was replaced several times and the body was stuffed with linen to keep its shape
π Wrapping (Days 44β70)
LinenThe body was wrapped in hundreds of yards of linen strips β the process took 15 days
AmuletsProtective charms and amulets were placed between the layers for the afterlife journey
MaskA painted mask was placed over the face β pharaohs got gold masks like King Tut's famous one
CoffinThe wrapped mummy was placed in a decorated coffin (sometimes multiple nested coffins!)
π― Quiz Time!
β 0Q 1/4
Ancient Egyptian Mummification
The ancient Egyptian mummification process is one of the most fascinating topics in world history education. Spanning 70 days, this elaborate procedure reflects the Egyptians' deep beliefs about the afterlife and their remarkable understanding of preservation chemistry β thousands of years before modern science.
This interactive tool guides students through each phase of mummification with kid-friendly explanations and a quiz. Perfect for social studies and world history units in grades 3β6.
Last reviewed: April 2026
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