Iron Age Europe

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Iron Age Europe refers to the period in European history that followed the Bronze Age and preceded the Middle Ages. This era is characterized by the widespread use of iron for tools, weapons, and other artifacts. The Iron Age in Europe is generally considered to have begun around 1200 BCE and lasted until the Roman conquest in various regions, which occurred at different times across the continent.

Chronology

The Iron Age in Europe is typically divided into three main phases:

• Early Iron Age (c. 1200–800 BCE)
• Middle Iron Age (c. 800–400 BCE)
• Late Iron Age (c. 400 BCE–Roman conquest)

Cultural Groups

Several distinct cultural groups emerged during the Iron Age in Europe, each with its own unique characteristics and contributions to the development of European civilization.

Hallstatt Culture

The Hallstatt culture (c. 800–450 BCE) is named after the site of Hallstatt in modern-day Austria. It is considered the early phase of the Iron Age in Central Europe and is known for its rich grave goods, including weapons, tools, and ornaments made of iron.

La Tène Culture

The La Tène culture (c. 450 BCE–1st century BCE) succeeded the Hallstatt culture and is named after the site of La Tène on Lake Neuchâtel in Switzerland. This culture is noted for its artistic style, which included intricate metalwork and elaborate designs.

Celtic Tribes

The Celts were a significant cultural group during the Iron Age in Europe. They inhabited a large part of Western and Central Europe, including present-day France, the British Isles, and parts of Spain and Italy. The Celts are known for their distinctive art, mythology, and social structure.

Germanic Tribes

The Germanic tribes were another important group during the Iron Age. They lived in Northern and Central Europe and played a crucial role in the later stages of the Iron Age, particularly during the Migration Period.

Technological Advances

The Iron Age saw significant technological advancements, particularly in metallurgy. The ability to smelt and forge iron revolutionized tool and weapon production, leading to more efficient agricultural practices and more effective warfare.

Archaeological Sites

Several key archaeological sites provide insight into Iron Age Europe:

• Hallstatt in Austria
• La Tène in Switzerland
• Heuneburg in Germany
• Oppidum sites across Europe

Related Pages

• Bronze Age
• Middle Ages
• Hallstatt culture
• La Tène culture
• Celts
• Germanic tribes
• Migration Period
• Oppidum