High Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging of a Mummy from Ak-Alakha-3 Mound 1, Ukok Plateau, Gorny Altai: Findings and Interpretations

Abstract

The availability of science-based methods has marked a new stage in the study of Pazyryk mummies. This article outlines the results of a magnetic resonance imaging examination of a mummy found in 1993 at Ak-Alakha-3 mound 1, the Ukok Plateau, Gorny Altai—so far the only undisturbed burial of a high-ranking Pazyryk woman discovered in permafrost. The MRI examination revealed several diseases that may have caused the woman's death, and yielded certain facts relevant to her lifestyle. These findings may have implications for the woman's special status as a person “chosen by spirits”, possibly a priestess.