The Celts in the Nahe Valley and the Hunsrück

Around the year 475 B.C., at the beginning of the Latène era, a fundamental change in the social structure of the Celts began. Its origins and reasons are unknown. A new and incomparable style of art developed, with unique ornamentation and design. It was found on weapons, equipment, and jewellery of the Celtic upper class. This "Celtic Style" as it is called by art historians, has its own masterpieces and iconography, which is very obviously inspired by Celtic mythology. The region of Hunsrück-Eifel played a crucial role here. The term "Hunsrück-Eifel-Culture" is used to describe the importance of this area for those times.

Unique works of art and goldsmith's work found in the graves of the upper Classes attest to the economic prosperity of the Hunsrück-Eifel region at that time. These include in particular a drinking bowl from the «Prince's grave» of Schwarzenbach/Hunsrück in the early Celtic style from 450-375 BC as well as gold rings from the grave of the «Princess» of Waldalgesheim/Nahetal from around 325 BC in tendril style.

Photo: Drinking bowl from the «Prince's grave» of Schwarzenbach/Hunsrück in the early Celtic style from 450-375 BC.