Shells found in Spain could be among oldest known musical instruments

Summary

Conch-shell trumpets unearthed in Neolithic settlements and mines in Catalonia produce tones akin to a French horn, according to the lead researcher.

Context and Findings

Details

Quotes

Lead researcher: conch-shell trumpets from these sites “make a tone similar to a French horn.”

Author’s Note

These findings highlight how early communities repurposed natural materials for music, reflecting sophisticated auditory practices in Neolithic Catalonia.

Author’s Summary

A Neolithic Catalan site yields conch-shell trumpets with French horn–like tones, indicating some of the oldest known musical instruments in Europe.

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The Guardian The Guardian — 2025-12-03

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