Ötzi the Iceman, Europe's most famous mummy, has been preserved for over 5,300 years, harboring a diverse range of microbes. Discovered in 1991 in the Ötztal Alps, Ötzi's remains have been extensively studied, revealing insights into his last meal and gut microbiome. Recent research led by microbiologist Mohamed S. Sarhan from the Institute of Mummy Studies at Eurac Research focused on understanding the microbial ecosystem associated with Ötzi. The team sampled materials from his stomach, skin, and surrounding environment, including meltwater and alpine soil. Their findings confirmed the presence of ancient bacteria typical of non-Westernized gut microbiomes, while also identifying living cold-adapted yeast species that have likely survived since Ötzi's time. This research employed shotgun metagenomics to distinguish between ancient microbes and modern contaminants, providing a comprehensive view of Ötzi's microbial landscape. The ongoing study of these microbes not only enhances our understanding of ancient human life but also sheds light on microbial survival in extreme conditions.