The history of mummification in Egypt dates back to prehistoric times, when natural conditions in the desert preserved some bodies buried in the sand. However, it was not until the Old Kingdom (around 2600 BCE) that the Egyptians began to intentionally embalm their dead, using special techniques and materials to prevent decay. The practice of mummification reached its peak during the New Kingdom (between 1500 and 1075 BCE), when the best preserved and most elaborate mummies were made. The process involved removing the brain and the internal organs, drying the body with natron salt, filling the cavities with linen and other substances, and wrapping the body with linen strips soaked in resin. The mummies were then placed in coffins and tombs, along with canopic jars containing the organs, and various items and texts to help them in their journey to the afterlife.