A sarcophagus is a stone coffin that is often elaborately decorated and used in ancient cultures, particularly by the Egyptians and Greeks. These coffins were designed to hold the remains of the deceased and were typically placed in tombs or burial sites. The word "sarcophagus" comes from the Greek term meaning "flesh-eating," as some types of stone were believed to decompose bodies. Sarcophagi can vary in size and design, featuring intricate carvings, inscriptions, and sometimes even sculptures. They serve not only as a final resting place but also as a reflection of the beliefs and customs surrounding death in the respective cultures. Many famous sarcophagi, such as that of Tutankhamun, are now displayed in museums.