In today’s History newsletter: The mysterious controversy surrounding the Tarim Basin mummies, how one man’s survival became legend, and why everything we thought we knew about the ancient Maya is being upended.

But first: The real history of the Borgia family and their cursed “black legend.” 

DEA/SCALA, FLORENCE 

The Borgias were power hungry, corrupt, and self-indulgent— not unlike many of the Renaissance families of Italy. But still, their bloodline produced two popes. With many fascinated by the “black legend” that follows this family, do the Borgias actually live up to their notorious legacy?

More stories:
— Vlad the Impaler’s thirst for blood was an inspiration for Count Dracula 
— St. Peter’s Basilica contains his tomb ... right?

 M. CARRIERI/DEA/ALBUM 

PHOTOGRAPH BY WENYING LI, XINJIANG INSTITUTE OF CULTURAL RELICS AND ARCHAEOLOGY

Though they died thousands of years ago, hundreds of bodies excavated in western China’s Tarim Basin look remarkably alive. Known as the Tarim Basin mummies, these enigmatic and extremely well-reserved mummies still defy explanation—and draw controversy.

ONE LAST THING: This Renaissance masterpiece had been hidden for centuries ... until now.

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter, edited and curated by Jennifer Baik and produced by Amanda Williams-Bryant. Catch our latest Photo of the Week every Sunday—and sign up here to get our future adventures in your inbox.