This mysterious ancient object was discovered in Tutankhamun's tomb (PHOTO)

In ancient Egypt, teenagers certainly didn't have sex education classes in high school or even high school for that matter, but that doesn't mean that the people didn't know about birds and bees. Besides, an object found in Tutankhamun's tomb would prove that the condom is an invention that is much older than we thought...

A linen condom

Discovered in 1922 by archaeologists, Tutankhamun's tomb is full of treasures. In his last residence thousands of valuable goods were indeed found: jewels, statues, statuettes.. In total, more than 5,000 objects were recorded by the archaeologist Howard Carter.

But in the middle of these artefacts was also an object in fabric provided with a cord. No, it is not a small bag, like the ones we hang on our shoulders today. The cord was meant to be attached to the waist, and the kind of pocket was meant for... the user's penis. In fact, this curious object is a linen condom that is thousands of years old!

A contraceptive method as old as the world

This kind of 'ancient condom' would have been used in Egypt, more than 3,000 years ago, by the high society. The one found in the tomb would be one of the oldest models in the world, if not the oldest model. And according to the analyses, the DNA of Tutankhamun would have even been found inside!

However, the efficiency of this device is far from being proven. Indeed the linen condom was not used to prevent the spread of diseases and such, therefore meant it wasn't very effective. In fact, the remains of two fetuses were also found in his tomb. After genetic testing, both fetuses we fathered by King Tut.

So, if by any chance, you reach the rank of pharaoh, we can only advise you to prefer latex to linen during your restless nights.

This article was translated from Gentside FR.

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Sources used:

Ancient Origins: 'Tutankhamun Used Condoms Made from Oil-Soaked Linen'