While traditional archaeology involves meticulous lab work, some innovators are employing insights from archaeology and their creativity to revitalize the experiences of ancient civilizations through experimental archaeology.
In his latest book, Dinner with King Tutankhamun: How Rogue Archaeologists Recreate the Sights, Sounds, Smells, and Tastes of Lost Civilizations, author Sam Kean takes readers on an immersive journey into the world of experimental archaeology. He delves into activities such as crafting stone tools like primitive Homo sapiens, styling intricate hairstyles, tattooing with ancient methods, engaging in the Aztec ball game, and baking sourdough bread reminiscent of what King Tutankhamun might have enjoyed.
In a conversation with Live Science, Kean shared insights from his award-nominated book, which is a contender for the 2026 PEN/EO Wilson Literary and Scientific Writing Award and recognized as one of The New Yorker’s Best Books of 2025.
Related: Read an excerpt from Kean’s book, Dinner with King Tut.
Christina Killgrove: What drew you to experimental archaeology?
Sam Kean: Archaeology captivates me because it poses significant questions about our species, migration, and our evolutionary journey. However, traditional excavation often seemed dull, filled with tedious tasks like brushing soil for pottery shards.
Experimental archaeology offers a vibrant, hands-on approach where one can authentically recreate tools and dishes, allowing people to “smell” history itself, making it an exhilarating way to engage with archaeology.
KK: What was your research process for this book? Did you participate in archaeological experiments?
SK: The chapters are set in diverse time periods, allowing readers to forge a connection with historical experiences. Traditional literature informed me, yet engaging directly with experimental archaeologists enriched my understanding, enabling me to participate in techniques like brain-tanning leather and experiencing their processes firsthand.
KK: Any favorite experiments or archaeologists you collaborated with?
SK: One memorable project in Utah involved constructing a trebuchet, a massive medieval catapult. It was exhilarating launching large stones at a makeshift fort, embodying the thrill of ancient warfare.
The book reflects my journey in grappling with challenges, gaining insights that come with experimentation. Like the successful day with the trebuchet, each experience reinforced learning in unconventional ways.
KK: Your work presents a unique blend of fiction and factual archaeology. Could you elaborate on this creative direction?
SK: Experimental archaeology immerses you in sensory experiences, evoking the lives of our ancestors. Through fiction, I aimed to deepen this immersion by exploring their minds and context, providing readers with a holistic experience of their world.
KK: Will you explore experimental archaeology in future works?
SK: Absolutely! There are numerous cultures I want to examine further. The positive reception to experimental techniques is encouraging, and I envision more explorations as archaeological methods evolve.
This field invites participation, whether by attempting ancient recipes or studying culinary history. It’s about transforming our understanding of the past into dynamic experiences.
Look for my upcoming book, Museum of Lost Things: True Stories of Legendary Treasures, Legendary Cities, and Mythical Creatures Lost to History in Fall 2026.
KK: Can’t wait to read it. Thank you for the engaging discussion!
Editor’s note: This interview has been condensed for clarity.
