Stinky Stones

Sulphur Balls

Location: ZORITA DE LOS CANES — SPAIN

Origin: Found during excavations near castle walls and in the Keep at Zorita Castle.

Significance: Sulphur was used to make gunpowder at Zorita Castle. They are nicknamed (by archaeologists and AFAR students) “stinky stones” as they expel the characteristic odor of sulphur, even today, when they are split open.