Archaeological study shows ancient Egyptian royal women used bows and maces

Analysis of mummified remains from the Dahshur cemetery shows three daughters of Pharaoh Amenemhat II had developed upper-limb musculature and healed fractures consistent with repeated use of bows, arrows and maces. The remains were first recovered in the 1890s, later lost, and rediscovered at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Researchers had dismissed the weapons found with the burials as ceremonial.

bone attachments and fracture patterns overturned that view. Pronounced muscle development in the upper limbs matched the physical demands of drawing a bowstring or wielding a mace.

medical care One individual died between the ages of 28 and 34 and showed powerful upper-body musculature. Another died in her late 30s or early 40s and displayed bone thinning alongside strong ligament attachments. A third, who died between 20 and 34, had healed rib and foot fractures.

Prof Hashesh stated the injuries were most likely caused by accidents or impacts linked to an active lifestyle, whether through hunting, military training or other demanding activities. The well-healed fractures suggest the women received sophisticated medical treatment.