The ancient Egyptians had an elaborate burial process that evolved over time but consistently involved mummification, magic spells, and grave goods. Mummification removed organs and dried the body with natron for 40 days before filling it with sawdust and wrapping in linen. The mummified body was then placed in nested coffins and sarcophagi, which were decorated, and pets were sometimes buried as well. Wealth determined the burial location, from elaborate tombs to natural preservation in the hot sand.