Mystery of the 2,500-Year-Old Saltmen Mummies Finally Solved

When most of us think of mummies, our minds often drift to ancient Egypt's artificially preserved bodies wrapped in linen. But far from the sands of Egypt, in the salt mines of Iran's Zanjan Province, lies a hauntingly different narrative—the story of the Saltmen. Discovered in the Chehrabad salt mines, these mummies, preserved naturally by the salt, offer a rare glimpse into the lives and deaths of ancient miners.

The first Saltman was found in 1993, with long hair, a beard, and a collection of artifacts, including a leather boot and iron knives. Since then, five more bodies have been discovered, each telling a unique tale. Some are believed to have perished due to mine collapses, trapped forever in the mines they worked. These bodies date back to different historical periods, including the Parthian, Sassanid, and Achaemenid eras, spanning over a millennium.

Advanced studies, including CT scans and 3D imaging, have revealed fascinating details. One Saltman, found to be around 2,200 years old, had tapeworm eggs in his intestines, suggesting a diet of raw or undercooked meat—likely a result of the harsh and demanding conditions of mine life. Another Saltman bore evidence of a fatal injury, with fractures around his eye, possibly indicating a violent encounter.

The Saltmen not only tell us about the harsh realities of ancient mining but also provide a broader understanding of the cultural and societal practices of the time. Some wore golden earrings, hinting at their status or rank, while the discovery of intricately patterned textiles points to the craftsmanship and artistry of ancient Iran.

Today, these mummies, including a teenager and a woman, are preserved in various museums in Iran, serving as a somber reminder of the past. Their discovery has led to international collaborations with institutions like the German Mining Museum, the University of Oxford, and the University of Zurich, expanding our knowledge of ancient civilizations. Join us as we delve into the gripping story of the Iranian Saltmen, exploring the life, death, and mysteries encased within these ancient salt mines.

#AncientHistory #Mummies #Saltmen #ChehrabadMines #ArchaeologicalDiscoveries #AncientIran #ZanjanProvince #NaturalMummies #SaltPreservation #AncientMiners #ParthianEra #SassanidEra #AchaemenidDynasty #Archaeology #HistoricalMysteries

[canavanibus]

Crazy being a salt miner and finding a fellow salt miner preserved from antiquity. What other profession runs that risk? Thanks for sharing.

[fraggzbN]

"See? It's totally safe."

2200 years later...

[jamessoucy]

Thank you for your service salt-people!

[teresaoconnell]

That is a well made boot! I also like to see ancient textiles.

[AFloridaSon]

This is very well done. And very educational. Thanks.

[chompachangas]

Dude was running around in Daisy Dukes (no shame, just saying). Honestly though, I got a good look at that boot. It looks like it was made by a cobbler who really knew what they were doing. It's impressive. That boot almost looks like it's in good enough shape to wear, if we could find its mate.

[misterolivista]

Thank you for a very informative video!

[larryg.]

... Wow ! Just, wow ! Incredible preserved finds ! ...

[userbosco]

The head in the glass thingy immediately reminded me of the scene in Silence of the Lambs when Clarice finds the head in the jar. Yikes. Poor old guy.

[EKA-jf]

First I have heard of this find. The old man wasn't really poor, his goods and clothing evidence of that.

[danielrowsey]

Thank you for the detailed video. I’m familiar with these individuals but not with the details behind them. I would like to see maybe a facial reconstruction on these people. I’m curious what their phenotypes are.

[CaptchaNeon]

7:39 It’s fascinating to see the hair color and texture but even more fascinating to see the eyes. It shows far more than Egyptian mummies

[Sherry-vr]

An informative and interesting video, thanks.

[eucliduschaumeau]

This is an astonishing find. There are many earthquakes in this area, so some or most of them may have been killed where they stood by falling rock and debris. Salt is a very powerful preservative. The man with the deluxe boot and beard is the best.

[col.cottonhill]

I keep hearing Buzz from Home Alone "the salt turns the bodies into mummies!"

[here_we_go_again]

Thank you for a most informative video.

[MegaTinaj]

Thank you 🙏 I have never heard of these mummified people, I will definitely research some more, fascinating ❤️ from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[harrybarnhill]

Im sure they were highly skilled and valuable workers, contributing to the wealth of their society

[thehandlesticks]

millennia later we realize why OSHA exists now lol

[Will-llgv]

Do you think his hair was white when he died or did that occur after death.