The claim that the body of Pharaoh Ramses II has not decomposed is a misconception. While his body was remarkably well-preserved, it did undergo some degree of decomposition. The preservation of Ramses II's body was achieved through a complex process of mummification, which involved removing internal organs, drying the body, and applying various substances to prevent decay.
Mummification and Preservation
- Ancient Egyptians believed in the preservation of the body for the afterlife. They believed that the soul would need a physical body to return to in the afterlife.
- The mummification process was complex and involved multiple steps. These steps included removing the internal organs, drying the body with natron salt, and wrapping the body in linen bandages.
- The process was not perfect, and some decomposition did occur. However, the mummification process significantly slowed down the decomposition process, allowing the body to be preserved for centuries.
Modern Preservation
- Ramses II's body was discovered in 1881 and was remarkably well-preserved.
- The body was transported to France in 1976 for scientific study.
- Scientists discovered that the body was infected with a fungal infection. This infection was likely responsible for the body's remarkable preservation. The fungus, Aspergillus niger, acted as a natural preservative, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause decomposition.
Conclusion
While the body of Pharaoh Ramses II was remarkably well-preserved, it was not completely untouched by decomposition. The mummification process and the later discovery of a fungal infection contributed to the preservation of his body.
