In a stunning development that has reignited global curiosity about extraterrestrial life, a team of researchers investigating mysterious “alien mummies” discovered in Peru claims to have unearthed new scientific evidence that, in their view, validates the specimens as “100 percent real.”
The focal point of this ongoing inquiry is a peculiar mummy named “Antonio,” whose existence first captured public attention following its formal presentation to the world in December 2023. This particular specimen has now become the subject of intense study by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. José Zalce, a respected forensic expert and the former director of the Mexican Navy’s Medical Department.
Utilizing a highly specialized camera device, the team embarked on an internal exploration of Antonio’s skull, carefully inspecting three cranial cavities. What they discovered inside could reshape prevailing notions about the origins of the enigmatic remains: dried tissue remnants alongside what were described as “well-preserved anatomical structures.”
According to Dr. Zalce, one of the most remarkable findings was the presence of second and third molars within the mouth—teeth that bore an uncanny resemblance to those of modern humans. “These structures are virtually indistinguishable from human teeth,” he stated in an interview with The Daily Mail, adding that there were no conspicuous anatomical deviations in the skull. The eye sockets, cranial bones, and jaw structures were all noted to align closely with the biological framework of a human being.
Even more compelling to the team was the complete absence of synthetic components or any evidence of post-mortem alterations to the bones or soft tissue. This led Dr. Zalce and his colleagues to assert that Antonio is not some fabricated hoax or artistic assemblage, but rather a genuine organic entity—one they describe as a legitimate corpse.
A Curious Blend of Human and Inhuman Traits
Antonio, however, is no ordinary mummy. Despite the human-like dental and cranial features, other aspects of his anatomy appear highly unconventional. The body exhibits three fingers on each hand, a notably elongated skull, and eyes that are small and slanted—traits that depart significantly from typical human morphology.
Physically, Antonio measures between 5.5 and 5.7 feet tall. Through radiocarbon dating and related analysis, the researchers have estimated the mummy to be approximately 1,500 years old. His developmental features suggest he was a young adult at the time of death.
Further examination of his teeth revealed typical signs of wear, discoloration, and usage consistent with regular consumption of food—yet another clue indicating a once-living, functional biological being. The team found between 28 and 32 teeth in total, a range considered normal in adult humans.
Interestingly, prior investigations of Antonio’s dental structure revealed that some of the teeth contained amalgam fillings. These dental restorations, common in the modern era, are composed of a blend of metals such as mercury, silver, copper, and tin. The presence of such materials has sparked debate and further intrigue: How could a 1,500-year-old body contain modern dental work?
Read more: DNA Testing Cracks 3,300-Year-Old Mystery of King Tut’s Death
Internal Anatomy and Signs of Trauma
Dr. David Ruiz Vela, the former president of Peru’s Medical Association and the first medical expert to examine Antonio, added yet another layer to the mystery. He reported that the internal structure of the mummy included what appeared to be well-defined human-like organs, including a brain structure visible within the cranial cavity.
Even more surprisingly, Dr. Vela discovered evidence of violent trauma: Antonio had sustained a penetrating stab wound on the left side of his chest. This injury had fractured multiple ribs, damaged internal organs, and ultimately resulted in a complete perforation of the abdominal cavity. “He suffered a penetrating wound that broke ribs, pierced the chest and abdomen, and damaged vital organs,” Dr. Vela explained.
Divided Opinions Within the Scientific Community
While these findings might seem like undeniable proof of authenticity to some, the global scientific community remains deeply divided. Forensic archaeologist Flavio Estrada has been particularly outspoken in dismissing the claims surrounding the so-called “alien mummies.” According to Estrada, the figures are nothing more than cleverly crafted dolls, assembled using bones from animals native to Earth and held together with modern synthetic adhesives.
“These are not extraterrestrial beings,” Estrada argued in a prior public statement. “They are hoaxes—constructed with animal bones and modern glue. It’s a fabrication designed to mislead.”
However, this rebuttal has not gone unchallenged. Joshua McDowell, a former prosecutor from Colorado who has been involved in studying the controversial mummies, contends that Estrada’s analysis was based on a completely different set of artifacts. “The specimens Estrada reviewed were unrelated to the genuine bodies we’ve examined. His were crude imitations—folk art dolls that were intercepted at an airport,” McDowell clarified in response.
The Origins: Shrouded in Secrecy
Adding to the layers of intrigue is the question of where these mummies actually came from. Since their public debut, researchers have been tight-lipped about the precise location of the site where Antonio and others were unearthed. Journalist and researcher Jois Mantilla, who has taken a strong stance in support of the mummies’ authenticity, claims that more information about the site and its discoveries will be revealed in 2025.
Mantilla also emphasized that the decision to keep the location a secret was made to deter looters and preserve the integrity of the area. “We’re protecting the site until further studies can be completed,” he explained. This kind of caution isn’t uncommon in high-profile archaeological discoveries, where valuable artifacts are at risk of theft or destruction.
The saga of Antonio and other similar specimens traces back to 2017, when investigative journalist and ufologist Jaime Maussan—alongside a group of paranormal researchers—publicly introduced the three-fingered mummified humanoids. At the time, many experts and skeptics immediately dismissed the claims as pseudoscientific or sensationalist. However, with new technologies and more thorough scientific analysis now underway, interest in the mystery has been rekindled.
Read more: Archeologists Find Ancient Child Remains Hidden Inside Maya Altar
A Cautionary Tale—or the Start of a New Chapter?
Whether Antonio is truly an extraterrestrial being, an unknown hominid species, or simply a misunderstood ancient human remains uncertain. What is clear is that the debate is far from settled. As evidence continues to mount and new voices join the conversation, the world watches with curiosity, wonder, and a healthy dose of skepticism.
For now, Antonio lies silent—an enigma wrapped in linen, science, and controversy. His story may be 1,500 years old, but its implications for our understanding of life—on this planet and perhaps beyond—could be profound.
As we await the promised revelations in 2025, the mystery of Peru’s alleged alien mummies continues to captivate imaginations, challenge assumptions, and blur the lines between science and speculation.
Featured image: Alien Mummy, Dr. Jose Zalce, Freepik.
