First Evidence of Familial Embalming in Europe

Recent archaeological discoveries at Château des Milandes in Dordogne, France, have unveiled the first evidence of familial embalming practices in early modern Europe, particularly among the aristocratic Caumont family from the 16th and 17th centuries. Researchers from the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW) identified the embalming of seven adults, five children, and a mummified woman, indicating a standardized technique used for ceremonial purposes rather than long-term preservation. The process involved complete skinning and the removal of internal organs, with the body cavities filled with aromatic substances to delay decomposition. This practice highlights the social status of the deceased, allowing for public display during funerals, especially for those who died away from home. The findings, which align with historical accounts from the 18th century, demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of embalming techniques passed down over generations. Detailed examinations of the remains reveal a meticulous approach to the treatment of both adults and children, shedding new light on burial rituals in early modern Europe.