The Bashiri mystery: A 2,300-year-old Egyptian mummy that no archaeologist dares to open

The mysterious mummy known as “Bashiri” has intrigued Egyptologists for over a century, yet its true identity remains unknown.

Discovered by Howard Carter in 1919 in the Valley of the Kings, this mummy—dubbed the “Untouchable”—features a unique embalming technique never seen before.

The intricate wrappings on its face resemble pyramid architecture, hinting at the high status of the individual.

Believed to date back to the Ptolemaic period (2nd–3rd centuries BCE), the mummy provides valuable insights into ancient burial practices.

Due to the fragility of its wrappings, researchers have relied on non-invasive methods like CT scans and X-rays, revealing that Bashiri was a man about 167 cm tall.

The elaborate decorations, including depictions of Isis, Nephthys, and Anubis, suggest he was a wealthy and influential figure.

However, the only clue to his identity is a hastily inscribed name in his tomb—either “Bashiri” or “Neno”—leaving scholars uncertain about his true name, Euro News has reported.

Studies continue, but for now, Bashiri remains one of ancient Egypt’s enduring mysteries.

Written by B.C. Begley