Introducing the Gebelein Man, an astonishing figure from ancient Egypt whose remains have defied the passage of 5,500 years and emerged as one of the most remarkably preserved individuals.

Believed to have been laid to rest around 3500 BC or even earlier, at the Gebelein site in Upper Egypt, this extraordinary preservation owes much to direct contact with the scorching, arid sand, which naturally mummified his body.

Thanks to advanced 3D imaging techniques, researchers have been able to examine the Gebelein Man’s muscles, bones, teeth, and organs. These investigations unveiled not only his young age at the time of death, estimated to be between 18 and 20, but also a minute cut concealed above his left shoulder blade. This injury appears to be a penetrating wound, potentially inflicted by a pointed weapon measuring 1.5-2cm (0.6-0.8in) in width, possibly a copper blade.

“This is the Gebelein Man. Although he died 5,500 years ago, he is one of the best-preserved individuals from ancient Egypt.