The mystery of the ancient Egyptian mummy found in the “cursed” sarcophagus has captivated the world, sparking both fear and fascination. Initially, speculation about the three-ton object ranged from fears of ancient diseases to apocalyptic predictions if the tomb were opened.

Despite these concerns, the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities proceeded with the unveiling, revealing the macabre contents within – the decomposed bones of three individuals submerged in a repugnant red liquid.

Immediately following the revelation, an online petition emerged, with over 32,800 signatories by August 22, demanding the opportunity to assume whatever powers might be contained in the noxious cocktail by drinking it.

The Ministry of Antiquities, responsible for handling the relic, has now concluded its preliminary analysis, shedding light on the enigmatic find.

By examining the pelvic bones and skulls of the three individuals, archaeologists determined that the sarcophagus held the remains of two young men and a young woman. The woman, aged 20 to 25, measured between 5.2 and 5.3 feet in height, while the man, aged 35 to 39, stood between 5.2 and 5.4 feet tall. The bodies appeared to be stacked, indicating they were not buried simultaneously.

A grim revelation emerged during the analysis – a substantial puncture wound at the back of the second man’s skull. Initially believed to be caused by an arrow, closer inspection suggested the possibility of ancient brain surgery. The bone around the wound indicated healing, implying the man lived with this procedure between the ages of 40 and 44.

The tallest of the three, measuring between 5.8 and 6.05 feet, bore evidence of a cavity that might result from trepanation – a surgical procedure rarely seen in Egypt but practiced throughout the ancient world. Trepanation involves puncturing or drilling into a living patient’s skull for various purposes, such as relieving pressure or curing mental disorders.

Zeinab Hashish from the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities noted, “This means that the cavity might be a result of trepanation. This surgery is the oldest surgical intervention ever known since pre-history but was rare in Egypt.” The crude nature of trepanation suggests an incredibly painful experience for the patient.

Addressing the red liquid inside the sarcophagus, the Ministry explained it likely resulted from well water seeping into the coffin and mixing with decomposing remains over an extended period. When the lid was first lifted, the overpowering stench required the area to be aired out for an hour.

Despite the initial fears and superstitions, the opening of the sarcophagus did not unleash any ancient curse upon the world. Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, reassured, “I was the first to put my whole head inside the sarcophagus, and here I stand before you.

I am fine. We’ve opened it, and, thank God, the world has not fallen into darkness.” The saga of the cursed sarcophagus serves as a testament to the delicate balance between historical curiosity and the fears embedded in ancient mysteries.