The Carnyx was a war trumpet used by the Celts during combat and in ceremonies between 200 BC and 200 AD. Surviving depictions of the instrument show that they were held high above the head, and may have been trumpeted with dozens of other carnyces at the same time, striking fear into the hearts of the enemy before they could even be spotted.

For more information on the Carnyx and it’s place in Celtic culture, I recommend listening to John Kenny’s excellent lecture “The Carnyx: The Mouthpiece of the Gods”, which is available on YouTube.

3December Day 17

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