The mummy of Hatshepsut, one of ancient Egypt’s most renowned female pharaohs, has undergone extensive archaeological and forensic investigations. Reigning during the 18th Dynasty from around 1479 to 1458 BC, Hatshepsut’s tomb and monuments were discovered in the past, but her mummy had remained elusive for many years.

In the early 1900s, a mummy discovered in the Deir el-Bahari complex, concealed in a tomb initially intended for a nobleman, was later identified as belonging to Hatshepsut.

However, it wasn’t until the 2000s that advanced forensic methods, such as DNA testing, definitively validated her identity. The woman’s advanced age, toothless mouth, and other physical traits matched those of Hatshepsut. Despite the initial misidentification linked to the tomb inscription of the 18th Dynasty, further studies eventually resolved the mystery.

Although the precise cause of Hatshepsut’s death remains uncertain, some evidence suggests she may have suffered from bone cancer or other significant ailments in her later years.

CT scans and medical examinations have uncovered signs of illness that could have contributed to her demise. Hatshepsut’s reign marked one of Egypt’s most prosperous periods, and while her mummy may not be as widely recognized as others, it provides valuable insights into her life. Currently housed at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Cairo, the mummy is cataloged as JE 56264.

The discovery and identification of Hatshepsut’s mummy offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of this extraordinary female pharaoh. Despite the challenges in locating her remains, modern forensic techniques have shed light on her physical characteristics and potential health struggles.

Through ongoing research and analysis, historians and archaeologists continue to piece together the story of Hatshepsut’s legacy and the mysteries surrounding her reign. The mummy’s presence at the NMEC serves as a tangible link to Egypt’s ancient past, preserving the memory of one of its most influential rulers for generations to come.