Neolithic shell trumpets from Spain show advanced acoustic properties and long-distance communication. Study examined 12 shell trumpets from five different Neolithic sites in Catalonia, Spain Trumpets date to 6700-5150 years ago, spanning roughly 1500 years All trumpets made from pink lady conch with intentionally removed apex
🎺 6,000-year-old shell trumpets from Catalonia Spain still work! Made from pink lady conch shells with intentionally removed apex, produced 400-470 hertz - loud enough for long-distance signaling. Eight of 12 specimens playable. Ancient super horns!
Key Facts
- Study examined 12 shell trumpets from five different Neolithic sites in Catalonia, Spain
- Trumpets date to 6700-5150 years ago, spanning roughly 1500 years
- All trumpets made from pink lady conch with intentionally removed apex
- Eight of 12 specimens still capable of producing sound
- One author is archaeologist, musicologist, and professional trumpet player who played original instruments
- High sound intensity indicates primary use as signaling instruments for long-distance communication
- Sound pressure levels surpass any other known prehistoric tool in acoustic power
- Best preserved specimens produced up to three stable notes with pitch modulation possible
- Holes in two shells do not function as tone holes
- Fundamental frequencies between 400-470 hertz suggest shells were selected based on size
- Evidence supports role in structuring prehistoric soundscape
Source: New Archaeology Discoveries: December 2025 by Inside Archaeology