Canopic Jars

ancient Egypt · mummification · afterlife

Sacred organ containers. Canopic jars were special vessels used during mummification to hold organs like the liver, lungs, stomach, and intestines that were removed from the body. Each jar was sealed and protected so the organs would last forever in the afterlife.

Guardians of the dead. Each of the four canopic jars had a carved head on top representing a different Egyptian god or spirit. These divine guardians were believed to protect the organs and help the person's soul in the afterlife.

Part of the mummy package. Canopic jars were placed in the tomb alongside the mummy, coffins, and other treasures. Egyptians believed that keeping the organs safe and preserved was just as important as preserving the body itself.

Made to last centuries. These jars were crafted from limestone or calcite and buried in tombs where they stayed protected for thousands of years. Today, archaeologists find them in Egyptian tombs and can study what's inside to learn about ancient people's health and lives.

Only for important people. Canopic jars were typically used for pharaohs and wealthy Egyptians who could afford elaborate mummification. Poorer people were sometimes mummified without this special organ preservation.