Fun Holidays - International Celtic Art Day

During the magnificent heyday of Ancient Greece and Rome in northern Europe, the civilization of the mysterious Celtic people developed no less rapidly. It had a rich mythology, culture and traditions that have come down to us in the form of written evidence from the authors of Antiquity. To the ancient Romans, the tribes living in the territory of modern England, Ireland, Belgium, France, parts of Germany and Austria seemed barbaric and savage. The Celts received the name "Gauls" ("roosters") for their warlike disposition and pugnacity. However, these features of the worldview do not detract from the historical value of the culture of the ancient people. June 9 is International Celtic Art Day. One of the most famous architectural monuments in Great Britain is Stonehenge. In addition to this monument, the Celts erected more than 250 temples on the territory of modern Bavaria. They are also the founders of cities such as Paris, Budapest and Turin. The Scots, Bretons, Irish, Welsh and Cornwalls consider themselves descendants of the Celts. They are proud of their roots and the culture of their ancestors, so they took the initiative to create a special holiday. International Celtic Art Day was founded in 2000 by a group of artists, scholars and ordinary people interested in Celtic art. In their field of vision are various historical finds: a cauldron from Gundenstrup, a richly decorated silver vessel of the 1st century. BC, and the Agris helmet of the 4th century. BC. made of bronze and iron, covered with gold leaf. The sculpture and architecture of the Celts shows a strong influence of Antiquity, the culture of the Etruscans, Scythians and Persians. However, researchers insist on the originality of the artifacts that have come down to us: jewelry, grave goods from ancient burials, church items and decor. Celtic artisans were especially successful in applying artistic designs to metal and bronze items. Engraving and relief images of plants and animals on household items are distinguished by virtuosity and a high level of skill. Researchers are studying both a stone from the village of Hilton of Cadbol and the Muredah cross, dating back to the beginning of the 10th century. AD, and less monumental finds that demonstrate the uniqueness of Celtic culture. It was distinguished by the high development of artistic craft, which made household items of the tribes inhabiting Western and Central Europe real works of art. The Celtic culture lasted for quite a long time - from the second period of the Iron Age (V-I centuries BC) to the early Middle Ages. She had a great influence on the formation of European civilization. In order to pay tribute to the heritage of one of the most ancient peoples, the International Day of Celtic Art was established.