How were Neolithic shell trumpets used for communication?

Neolithic shell trumpets were used for long-distance communication to signal warnings, coordinate harvests, or communicate in mines.

What is the oldest communication technology found in Catalonia?

The oldest communication technology found in Catalonia includes Neolithic shell trumpets dating back to between 3650 BC and 4690 BC.

Why did shell trumpet communication disappear around 3600 BC?

Scientists currently have no clear explanation for why this form of communication technology vanished around 3600 BC.

Home / Science / Stone Age Horns Speak: 6,000-Year Communication Revived

Stone Age Horns Speak: 6,000-Year Communication Revived

13 Jan

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Summary

Neolithic shell trumpets from 3650-4690 BC were played after 6,000 years.
Eight of twelve found trumpets still worked, with one reaching 111.5 decibels.
These instruments likely signaled warnings, coordinated harvests, or communicated in mines.

Stone Age Horns Speak: 6,000-Year Communication Revived

Archaeologists have successfully recreated the sounds of Neolithic shell trumpets, dormant for over six millennia. Twelve trumpets, unearthed in Catalonia, Spain, and dating between 3650 BC and 4690 BC, were tested, revealing that eight remained functional. These ancient instruments, crafted from Charonia sea snail shells, could produce sounds reaching 111.5 decibels, comparable to a powerful car horn, and likely facilitated long-distance communication between Stone Age villages separated by up to six miles.

The discovery of these trumpets across five archaeological sites suggests a shared cultural practice among communities that were possibly farming or mining variscite. Their potent sound could have served various purposes, from warning of dangers to coordinating agricultural tasks like harvests. Some trumpets found in mines might have been used for signaling in dark, echoing environments, demonstrating sophisticated communication technology.