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Rare Celtic Battle Horns Discovered in West Norfolk
7 Jan
Summary
- A 2,000-year-old Iron Age hoard was discovered in West Norfolk.
- The find includes a near-complete battle trumpet known as a carnyx.
- Experts consider the hoard significant for understanding ancient British culture.
An extraordinary collection of Iron Age artifacts, estimated to be 2,000 years old, has been uncovered in West Norfolk. This significant hoard, found during routine archaeological work, includes a remarkably preserved battle trumpet, known as a carnyx, and other metal items.
The carnyx, a distinctive animal-headed bronze instrument, was used by Celtic tribes across Europe to rally warriors and intimidate enemies during conflict with the Roman Empire. The collection also features a bronze boar's head, likely from a military standard, and several shield bosses, making the find rare globally.
Conservation experts are currently stabilizing the fragile objects. This discovery is expected to greatly enhance our understanding of Iron Age culture, sound, and music, with findings set to be reported as potential Treasure under the Treasure Act 1996.
