Iron Age
The Iron Age is the period of European history that dates from
around 800 BC to the Roman Conquest when iron was first used
instead of bronze to make tools and weapons. In the parts of Europe
the Romans never conquered, the term Iron Age is used to cover the
time period up to the medieval period.
Iron Age people are sometimes referred to as Celts, but other
groups are also known from Europe at this time such as Germans and
Iberians.
The people of Iron Age Europe were farmers. Wheat, barley and
beans were harvested in small fields and people reared animals such
as cattle, sheep and pigs. Other important resources include wood
for fuel and building houses, and salt for preserving meat. The
majority of people lived on farms or in small villages.
Occasionally Iron Age people lived in larger settlements, such as
hillforts and Oppida.
Some Iron Age people made highly decorated metal objects, which
we call Early Celtic or La Tène art. These objects were often very
skilfully made and the techniques used to make them were
technologically advanced.
The British Museum collection contains thousands of Iron Age
objects. A selection is on display in Room 50. The Snettisham
Great Torc, Basse-Yutz Flagons and Battersea Shield are stunning
examples of Early Celtic art. Room 50 also includes objects
associated with Iron Age feasting, burial and objects which inform
us about everyday life in the Iron Age.
Image caption: The Great Torc from
Snettisham
Iron Age, about 75 BC. Found at Ken Hill, Snettisham, Norfolk,
England