Bodies in this Colombian town don’t decay after death as expected, and nobody knows why

In the mountainous Colombian town of San Bernardo, an unusual discovery has left residents and experts confused. Clovisnerys Bejarano kneels before a glass box containing her mother's body, a sight that defies the passage of 30 years. Saturnina Torres de Bejarano, dressed in the same attire she was buried in, appears remarkably preserved, as if in a peaceful sleep, with a faux red carnation clasped in her hands.

"She still has her little brown face, round, her braids, her hair," Bejarano, 63, told AFP at her mother's final resting place in a museum displaying her body

The phenomenon of spontaneous mummification has puzzled the peopleof San Bernardo for decades. Despite manyattempts to unravel its mystery, the exact cause remains hidden. Some attribute it to divine intervention, viewing it as a reward or punishment from God. Others speculate that the town's healthy lifestyle and temperate climate play a role, but conclusive evidence is still lacks.

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The town's cemetery, situated on a steep mountain slope, has become a focal point of scientific inquiry. Experts believe that the unique conditions within the burial vaults may contribute to the preservation process.

Like an oven

The constant wind and hot temperatures create an environment similarto an oven, dehydrating the bodies and preventing decomposition. However, further research is needed to validate this belief.

Despite the lack of clarity surrounding its cause, the phenomenon of spontaneous mummification has left an indelible mark on the town's culture and folklore.

Tales of preserved bodies have become woven into the fabric of San Bernardo's identity, with residents speculating about its significance and implications for the afterlife.

For families like the Bejaranos, the preservation of their loved ones' bodies serves as a reminder of life's mysteries and the enduring bonds of family. While some opt for cremation, others choose to keep their relatives' bodies intact, cherishing their memory for generations to come.

As scientists continue to study the phenomenon, the people of San Bernardo remain enchanted by its mystery.

(With inputs from agencies)