Jewelry and Clothing in Celtic Culture
Celtic people, also sometimes called Gauls, moved actively throughout eastern Europe between the third and fifth centuries B.C. They succeeded in conquering a number of cities and countries as they sought to expand their region. Much of what we know about the Celtic people comes from the artifacts they left behind. A study of Celtic culture would not be complete without examining the clothing and jewelry of these people.
Anthropologists have had trouble studying Celtic history due to the lack of written records from this society. Traditionally, Celtic stories and events have been preserved through history thanks to oral renditions of the tales. Most of what scientists have learned has come from oral accounts of history. Some information has been gleaned from classical authors, but inaccuracies may exist in these accounts.
What Were Celtic Homes Made From
The Celtic homes were described to be small and round with thatched roofs made from dried heather or straw. The materials used for their homes depended on the geographic region. Celtic homes in the north were made out of stone and clay, whereas homes in the south were made from wattle and daub. The houses typically had a central fireplace in the middle of the circular area, used for both cooking and heating the house.
Traditions and Superstitions in Celtic Culture
The Celtic people were traditionally very superstitious. The Druids, or Celtic priests, served as powerful connections between humans and supernatural beings. By observing details around them, the Druids would work to predict the future. Celtic people believed in spirits, gods, goddesses, and supernatural animals. Their beliefs focused on the all-encompassing powers of these beings. Celts also had a firm belief in reincarnation.
Jewelry and Clothing Worn by Celtic People
When the Greeks and Romans encountered people from the Celtic tribes, they appeared to be bold and powerful adversaries. They usually had fair complexions and red or golden hair. Celtic women were formidable in size. They created intricate styles with their hair, and they wore colorful, embroidered dresses. Many Celts wore woven cloaks, and it was a common sight to see gold and silver neck rings, arm adornments, and rings. Brooches holding collars together were another common feature of Celtic outfits.
Learn More About Celtic Culture and History
- Who Were the Ancient Celts? The Romans and Greeks considered the Celts barbarians because of the way they would occupy and area and displace people who were already living there.
- Iron Age Celts: Ethnic and Cultural Identity: Explore the fascinating history of the ancient Celts to learn where they originated and who these people were.
- Celtic Sacrifice: View images of ancient Celtic artifacts and read about the incidence of human sacrifice in Celtic history.
- The Effect of Christianity Upon the British Celts (PDF): Celts in Britain encountered Christianity, and it had a profound impact on their beliefs and their daily lives.
- Irish and Celtic Culture and Art: Celtic culture blends with art to produce iconic styles of music and dance.
- The Lives of Ancient Celtic Women (PDF): Ancient Celtic women enjoyed a distinct prominence in this society, unlike other women of other societies.
- The Religious Beliefs and Practices of the Ancient Celts: The ancient Celts were a people of war, occupying numerous areas in Europe for centuries.
- In Search of Ancient Ireland: Ancient Ireland seems to have been a peaceful place with small communities of farmers.
- Celtic Druidism: History and Myths: Druids may predate the Celts, although many people associate Druidism with the Celts.
- Celtic Torque Neck Ring: View a picture and read a description of a Celtic torque neck ring worn by ancient Celts.
- Celtic Europe: Celtic history is somewhat vague because they did not record events in writing.
- The Celtic People: The Celtic people expanded their European territory exponentially as they worked to conquer many areas.
- Celtic Languages: Celtic languages varied according to geographic region, but they included Goidelic and Brythonic dialects.
- Closing the Book on Celtic: Explore the history and nuances of the Celtic language to learn more about these people.
- The Power of Women in Celtic Society: Female Druids: Druidesses have an important place in history because they served as priestesses in the Celtic religion.
- The Timeline of Celtic History: View a comprehensive timeline of Celtic history on this page.
- Celtic Dress of the 16th Century: Part of the culture of early Scottish and Irish people was the types of clothing worn at the time, some of which have persisted in traditional dress to this day.
- Pre-Christian Inhabitants of Ireland and Scotland: Early Celts established thriving settlements in Ireland and Scotland long before Christian missionaries arrived.
- Celtic Foxtail Necklaces: View images of Celtic jewelry and learn about foxtail designs in this document.
- Vikings? It Was the Celts That Wore Horned Helmets: An exhibition reveals much about Celtic culture through its artifacts.
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