Evidence for Embalming in Roman Greece

Using electron microscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, researchers found evidence of embalming in Roman Greek times. Researchers from the Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich (Switzerland) used physico-chemical and histological methods to show that various resins, oils, and spices were used during the embalming of a female in Northern Greece around 300 AD.

This is the first ever multidisciplinary-based indication for artificial mummification in Greece at 300 AD. The remains of this 55-year-old female show the preservation of various soft tissues, hair, and part of a gold-embroidered silk cloth. In addition to macroscopic and anthropological analyses, electron microscopy and GC-MS examinations were performed. These showed the presence of various embalming substances including myrrh, fats, and resins. The findings significantly increase knowledge about the use of tissue-preserving, antibacterial, and antioxidative substances in the mortuary practices of Roman Greece.