Tambourines and tammorre are framed musical instruments widespread throughout the Mediterranean area. The tamburrello, smaller in shape than the tammorra, is widespread in Calabria where it takes the name of tammurinu or tambureddu.
It is present in many Calabrian tourist-commercial iconography and is often used as an emblem of the region. Tamburrelli and tammorre boast ancient origins. Rock graffiti have been found depicting phoenix priestesses with the framed drum in their hand or in the act of playing it. From these depictions, it is believed that tamburrelli and tammorre have always been an essentially female instrument, because it is strictly connected to fertility rituals. Tamburrelli and tammorre are used to accompany tarantella, which requires strong rhythmic support.
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