Ötzi the Iceman to Receive a New Cooling System

South Tyrol is investing in its cultural heritage: As the Department of Public Works, Heritage Preservation, Land Registry and Cadaster announced at the Provincial Government's press conference on May 8, the cold cell for the preservation of the Iceman at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology will soon be renovated.

The existing system has been in continuous operation since 1998. Despite ongoing maintenance and several major interventions, the cold cell is now reaching its limits. The results of a recently conducted risk analysis have clearly demonstrated the need for action.

The mummy's cooling cell is a specially developed system that is unique worldwide. Ötzi is preserved under conditions similar to those of a glacier; at a constant -6°C with 99% humidity. Temperature and humidity are meticulously monitored 24 hours a day to ensure the mummy is preserved for future generations.

“The construction of the new Archaeology Museum will take some time, so it is important to take action promptly,” explains Elisabeth Vallazza, director of the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. 

Photos:
above: View inside Ötzi’s cooling system (c) South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology
below: Ötzi’s cold cell from outside. It is supplied by the cooling system (c) South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology