Comment by PlunderBunny
15 hours ago
Why would a cannon be used instead of, say, striking a bell? Does the sound travel better/further, or was it a display of wealth/status?
15 hours ago
Why would a cannon be used instead of, say, striking a bell? Does the sound travel better/further, or was it a display of wealth/status?
Because it is way more fun, unique and create a much better cloud of smoke. A great way to show off your wealth at the time it was built. Things does not always have a technical reason to be chosen. People are silly.
The sound is hard to mistake for anything else and travels better. Such cannons were used for synchronization of clocks on ships for navigation, among other uses.