July 19th, 2011
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Author: When one hears the word “mummy,” the first thing to come to mind is Egypt. The next is probably the pyramids of Egypt. But most people would be surprised to find out that some of the oldest mummies in the world are from places other than Egypt, including South America, Asia and Europe. But as of June 18, they will be right here in our own backyard.
“Mummies of the World,” a collection of more than 150 artifacts and specimens from around the world – making it the largest collection ever assembled – is currently housed at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.
The exhibit holds some of the oldest and most incredible artifacts ever found, including the Detmold Child, a 6,500-year-old embalmed infant found in Peru — predating King Tut by 3,000 years. The mummy is so well preserved that experts were able to determine things like the age of the infant and the cause of death.
In addition to the Detmold Baby, visitors can learn about the Vac mummies, an entire family that was preserved in Budapest. In 1994 construction workers discovered a crypt that had been sealed for 2,000 years. When opened, it was revealed that the crypt was filled with more than 250 coffins. The perfect conditions in the crypt naturally mummified and preserved the occupants, down to the clothing that was worn.
Also on display are the Baron and Baroness, a couple that was found in a Sommersdorf castle dating back to the 14th century, and a collection of mummified animals from Egypt. The beloved pets were meant to accompany their owners in the afterlife, to provide companionship and guidance.
This exhibit is a groundbreaker. Not only is it the largest collection of its kind, but it also allows us incredible insight into the way people lived thousands of years ago. The collection of these mummies and all the artifacts that go with them keeps the information alive, even though the mummies have passed on.
The Franklin Institute, well-known for its spectacular exhibits and support of science and research, is incredibly proud to be the temporary home to such a significant exhibit. A much-visited and favorite place for Montgomery County and Philadelphia residents, the museum has always been an advocate of learning and has helped to bring knowledge to residents of the surrounding areas for almost 200 years.
While there is still much to be learned from this impressive exhibit, one thing is absolutely certain — it can’t be missed. This exhibit is fascinating for everyone, no matter how old you are. The wealth of knowledge it contains is too important to miss.
If You Go:
“Mummies of the World”
continues at
the Franklin Institute,
222 N. 20 St., Continued…
When one hears the word “mummy,” the first thing to come to mind is Egypt. The next is probably the pyramids of Egypt. But most people would be surprised to find out that some of the oldest mummies in the world are from places other than Egypt, including South America, Asia and Europe. But as of June 18, they will be right here in our own backyard.
“Mummies of the World,” a collection of more than 150 artifacts and specimens from around the world – making it the largest collection ever assembled – is currently housed at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.
The exhibit holds some of the oldest and most incredible artifacts ever found, including the Detmold Child, a 6,500-year-old embalmed infant found in Peru — predating King Tut by 3,000 years. The mummy is so well preserved that experts were able to determine things like the age of the infant and the cause of death.
In addition to the Detmold Baby, visitors can learn about the Vac mummies, an entire family that was preserved in Budapest. In 1994 construction workers discovered a crypt that had been sealed for 2,000 years. When opened, it was revealed that the crypt was filled with more than 250 coffins. The perfect conditions in the crypt naturally mummified and preserved the occupants, down to the clothing that was worn.
Also on display are the Baron and Baroness, a couple that was found in a Sommersdorf castle dating back to the 14th century, and a collection of mummified animals from Egypt. The beloved pets were meant to accompany their owners in the afterlife, to provide companionship and guidance.
This exhibit is a groundbreaker. Not only is it the largest collection of its kind, but it also allows us incredible insight into the way people lived thousands of years ago. The collection of these mummies and all the artifacts that go with them keeps the information alive, even though the mummies have passed on.
The Franklin Institute, well-known for its spectacular exhibits and support of science and research, is incredibly proud to be the temporary home to such a significant exhibit. A much-visited and favorite place for Montgomery County and Philadelphia residents, the museum has always been an advocate of learning and has helped to bring knowledge to residents of the surrounding areas for almost 200 years.
While there is still much to be learned from this impressive exhibit, one thing is absolutely certain — it can’t be missed. This exhibit is fascinating for everyone, no matter how old you are. The wealth of knowledge it contains is too important to miss.
If You Go:
“Mummies of the World”
continues at
the Franklin Institute,
222 N. 20 St.,
Philadelphia PA, 19103,
For a limited time.
Tickets: $23.25 – $30.65.
Info: 215-448-1200 or
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