Farkel - modern western notation evolved over centuries, starting out as little marks above the text indicating where the voice was to go up or down - an aide memoire.
Most literate cultures have developed their own system of "tablature" to convey what is to be sung.
Rossyn Chapel has carvings which have been translated into modern notation. There is also a carving in Greece at a temple (I forget where) which is a hymn, dating back to BC.
HB