The Egyptians believed that life after death was very similar to life on Earth. So, the dead had to be protected and preserved for the next life. It was the pyramid’s job to protect the body.
Around 2600 B.C., a process known as mummification was invented to preserve bodies. Mummification—the making of a mummy—might take as long as 70 days. First, the brain was removed from the body—through the nostrils! Next, the other vital organs were taken out and put into tightly sealed jars. The body was then dried out for about 40 days. The Egyptians used a salt compound called natron to do this. In the next stage, the body was embalmed, or treated with molten resin and perfumed oils. Finally, the body was wrapped in linen bandages.
