The ancient Celts were not a literate people. The only textual accounts that we have of them are Classical sources, and these probably contain some truth. But these accounts, which are very limited in scope, are also colored by cultural prejudice, misunderstanding, and the need to propagandize.

The Celts or Gauls as referred to by the Romans of that time, originated from Eastern Europe. Their lands extended from Ireland to Hungary and as far south as Spain and Galatia in Asia Minor. In search of better grounds and by utilizing the Danube River, they spread into Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other regions in France, Scotland and Russia. Archaeological records reveal that many of their lands were densely inhabited and well farmed, dotted with settlements and gathering places, and often forts and shrines

Ancient Greek manuscripts dating back as far as the 4 th century A.D were the first documented proof of the Celts existence. By that time, according to Greek manuscripts, their numbers were so great; they were considered one of the greatest barbarian cultures of that era. The Celts inhabited huge areas in Europe, with each tribe maintaining its own individuality. They did share close similarities in religion, language and culture.

The Celts lived in large circular bungalows with wicker walls and thatched roofs. They dined and slept on the floor using wild animal hides to keep them warm. The fireplace was situated in the centre part of their home to allow enough space for all residents of the household to sit comfortably. The Greeks described the Celts as fairly tall people, with white skin and blonde hair. The Celtic people use to dye their bodies with extracts from Woad ( Isatis tinctoria , a hardy biennial plant native to northern Europe and the British Isles, which is a source of the blue dye chemical indigotin), and drew animal figures and swirl patterns on large portions of their skin. With time the Woad would turn blue and make the Celts look fierce in battle. These same patterns decorated clothing and many objects in the Celts daily lives.