[Canonic recognitions and scientific investigations on the Mummies of Saints].

Abstract

The Mummies of Saints represent a peculiar category in Italian scene; they are very different for each type of mummification, suffer from numerous environmental interference and rituals,from conservation work or handling repeated over time. An analytical and critical review of all known cases and an inventory is presented. In the present work the topics of canonic recognitions is briefly considered. The study of the bodies of the Saints is characterized by particular techniques and by very close bonds that first puts the conservation of the venerable rest to analytical study of them. However, these investigations are of particular interest not only in the anthropological, paleopathological and biological profile but also from an historical, cultural, religious, literary and artistic point of view.