Guanche mummies

[3] The methods of embalming are similar to those that were used by the Ancient Egyptians, though fewer mummies remain from the Guanche due to looting and desecration.

[4] In Gran Canaria there is currently a debate on the true nature of the mummies of the ancient inhabitants of the island, as researchers point out that there was no real intention to mummify the deceased and that the good conservation of some of them is due rather to environmental factors.

[8] Medieval Spanish explorers arriving in the islands during the 14th century reported the Guanche buried individuals of low social status in sandy graves, while upper class members were mummified and laid to rest in secluded caves.

[5] While early explorers reported various traditions associated with Guanche mummification (mirlado in Canarian Spanish), there are three methods identified in modern times through scientific analysis: evisceration, preservation, and stuffing.

[5] In 1876, Dr. Don Gregorio Chil y Naranjo discovered several incisions in some mummies that he speculated may have been used to remove the internal organs.

[9] The examination revealed that the body had been eviscerated, then the abdominal and thoracic cavities had been packed with a mud-like substance that contained the bark of a pine tree.

[3][9] In 1991, an examination conducted by Patrick Horne of a mummy held at the Redpath Museum at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, revealed moss had been used to stuff the empty abdominal cavity.