Mummies are preserved bodies, often associated with ancient Egypt. They were created through a process called embalming, which involved removing internal organs and treating the body with chemicals to prevent decay. This practice was part of the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife, as they thought preserving the body was essential for the soul's journey. Mummification was not exclusive to Egypt; other cultures, such as the Inca in South America and the Chinchorro people in Chile, also practiced similar techniques. Mummies can provide valuable insights into the health, culture, and daily life of ancient civilizations through archaeological studies.