Celtic culture refers to the cultural heritage of the Celts, an ethnolinguistic group that historically inhabited parts of Western Europe and the British Isles. This culture is characterized by its distinctive art, language, mythology, and social structures.
The Celts are first documented in historical sources from around the 7th century BC, with their influence spreading across much of Europe. Their culture peaked during the La Tène period (5th to 1st century BC), where they are known for their intricate metalwork, weaponry, and distinctive art styles.
With the rise of the Roman Empire, many Celtic tribes were conquered, leading to the decline of their independent political structures, although their culture persisted in various forms:
The Celtic languages form a branch of the Indo-European language family. Today, surviving Celtic languages include:
Celtic art is renowned for its intricate knotwork, spirals, and zoomorphic designs:
Celtic mythology includes a rich tapestry of gods, heroes, and otherworldly beings:
Celtic society was often divided into distinct classes:
In modern times, there has been a significant revival of interest in Celtic culture, particularly in: