Cornicen

Profile description

Cornicen – a military trumpeter responsible for transmitting sound signals by means of a curved horn called the cornu. He belonged to the auxiliary personnel of the legion and played an important role in command and in maintaining discipline on the battlefield and in the military camp.

The duties of the cornicen included signalling orders concerning the march, attack, retreat, change of formation, and daily camp activities. The sounds of the instrument made it possible to transmit commands quickly over long distances, especially amid the noise of battle.

Cornicines were specially trained soldiers of considerable importance for efficient communication in the Roman legions. In iconography, they were often depicted with a large, semicircular horn resting on the shoulder.

Tasks and duties

For discussion and development

External links