The Ancient Mummification Practices of the Guanches
Mummification was not exclusive to the Egyptians. The Guanches, the indigenous Berber population of the Canary Islands, also practiced sophisticated mummification techniques.
The Fascinating Discovery
When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Tenerife, they were astonished by the Guanches’ funerary customs of mummifying their dead. Alfons de Espinosa, a friar who witnessed the phenomenon, documented it in writing.
The Mummification Process
The corpses underwent a complex process involving the removal of viscera, stuffing with various substances like pine bark and animal fat, and drying for 15 days. Some were eviscerated, while others were not.
The Mummy of Barranco de Herques
One of the best-preserved Guanche mummies is the Barranco de Herques mummy, currently housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. Recent studies have revealed fascinating details about this 35-40-year-old male mummy from the 11th-13th century.
Insights from Modern Science
Through CT scans and analysis, researchers have discovered that the mummy belonged to a man of balanced diet and good physical condition, with intact viscera and perfect teeth.
The Guanche Mummies Today
Although looting and pillaging have reduced their numbers, the surviving Guanche mummies offer invaluable insights into the ancient islanders’ religious rituals and daily life.
The Mystery Remains
While modern science continues to unravel the secrets of the Guanche mummies, understanding how they acquired these sophisticated mummification techniques remains a challenge for researchers.
Unraveling the Secrets of the Ancient Islanders
As scientific advancements progress, the Guanche mummies hold the promise of revealing more about the ancient inhabitants of the Canary Islands, their rituals, and their way of life.
