Robbery of the Mummies of Guanajuato is frequently cited for its "so-bad-it's-good" quality, making it a beloved subject for retro-horror enthusiasts 1.2.4 .
Furthermore, INAH criticized the local municipality for its handling of the mummies. In 2023, during an exhibition at the Tianguis Turístico in Mexico City, a mummy known as "The Drowned Man" suffered damage, with one of its arms breaking off due to improper transport.
On December 8, 2019, around 2:00 a.m., a group of thieves entered the Museo de las Momias through a ventilation shaft. The group, estimated to be around six individuals, made their way to the display rooms, where they carefully selected several mummies to steal. The stolen mummies were wrapped in cloth and placed in specially designed boxes to facilitate their transportation.
In May 2020, a real-life controversy broke when a former museum director, Paloma Reyes Lacayo robbery of the mummies of guanajuato top
In recent years, Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) stepped in to conduct a rigorous scientific inventory. Their findings sparked fresh controversy. Experts discovered that several bodies lacked proper documentation, and some historic mummies noted in 20th-century records could no longer be accounted for.
Because of the unique, moisture-stripping climate and soil rich in minerals, the corpses did not decompose. Instead, they naturally mummified, often freezing with contorted, open-mouthed facial structures that gave them a terrifying "screaming" appearance.
. She argued that improper handling and "excessive obsession" with traveling tours caused the mummies' skin and hair to disintegrate, leaving only unidentifiable bones. Mexico News Daily 3. Recent Mismanagement Claims (2023–2024) The tension between the municipal government and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has escalated recently over the treatment of these remains. Physical Damage: Robbery of the Mummies of Guanajuato is frequently
Experts suggest the "disappearance" may be more biological than criminal. Due to improper storage and frequent transport for traveling exhibitions, some mummies may have undergone skeletonization , where the preserved skin and hair simply disintegrated, leaving only bones behind. Recent Controversies and "The Lost Arm"
So, were the mummies of Guanajuato actually stolen? The official answer from the city of Guanajuato remains a firm "no." However, the chaos surrounding the collection suggests a grave crisis of cultural stewardship. The INAH has filed complaints with the attorney general's office regarding the "possible commission of loss of mummies, damage of mummies, trafficking of influence, and illicit authorizations".
The most recent chapter in the "robbery" narrative emerged during audits conducted by Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). In recent years, INAH experts voiced serious concerns regarding the inventory management of the Museo de las Momias. On December 8, 2019, around 2:00 a
Reports and rumors have circulated over the years about thefts and disturbances involving the mummies. Motivations cited in various accounts include souvenir hunting, illicit sale of body parts, sensationalism for private collectors, and vandalism. Such incidents prompted local authorities and museum staff to increase security measures, including improved display cases, surveillance, and stricter access controls.
: Fans praise the "divinely ludicrous" action, including moments where the heroes face down the undead with flamethrower pistols. The use of wide-angle lenses and odd camera angles contributes to a "strange dream" or surreal experience. Negative Critiques : More critical reviews on Movies & Mania