Tombs of eternity
Are there mummies after death?
Embark on a fascinating journey between death and perpetual life by way of a captivating exhibition, Tombs of Eternity: The Afterlife in Ancient Egypt. Your entire life may still be before you, but we advise you to hurry and walk like an Egyptian in the recreated pharaoh’s tomb at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau! 
You’ll be immersed in a civilization that reigned supreme for 3,000 years as you explore a recreated tomb dating back four millennia and feast your eyes on 200 rare artifacts. Divided into seven sections, this exhibition sheds light on the ancient Egyptians’ fascination with eternal life, a belief that's still held today!
Beneath the sands of time
Sand is a wonderful thing, for not only is it an extraordinary filter, but it also preserves objects and other vestiges of our past. In fact, we have Egypt’s desert to thank for the preservation of scores artifacts we are able to behold today. What’s more, the pyramids constructed in the days of the pharaohs were used to bury a multitude of mummies in a fascinating ritual that’s revealed during our visit. It’s surprising to see just how complex and modern the Egyptians’ funerary arts were! Save my soul
Discover the mythical structure known as the mastaba. The upper portion of the construction was a chapel where the living would speak the deceased's name to help him survive in his new eternal life. It was also where offerings would be laid. Beneath this portion of the mastaba lay the mysterious underground funeral chamber that held the mummy, along with many objects the deceased might need in the afterlife.
The same wig two days in a row? Tut tut...
The ancient Egyptians were extremely fond of adornments: elaborate jewellery, make-up that highlighted the eyes and reflected the sun’s rays, many often extravagant wigs. This emphasis on physical appearance continued into the afterworld, as evidenced by the spectacular tombs where the mummies were laid to rest. Speaking of mummies, as you make your way to the end of the exhibition, a highlight is the chance to see three specimens with your very own eyes! Be sure to discover the intriguing world of Egyptian mummies before the exhibition is wrapped up for good!
At the Canadian Museum of Civilizations, in Gatineau, until August 16, 2009.
| Egypto-mania: it’s child’s play! |
| Imax film Mummies, Secrets of the Pharaohs |
Sylvain Lacoursière
Photos: Canadian museum of civilization
2009-04-08




Experience Québec

