Celtic helmet unearthed in Poland reveals ancient amber trade

Archaeologists in Poland have made a significant discovery at the Łysa Góra archaeological site, unearthing a 2,300-year-old bronze helmet along with over 300 other artifacts. This find marks the first evidence of Celtic presence in northern Poland, suggesting that the Celts, previously known to have settled in southern Poland around 400 B.C., extended their reach to the north. The helmet likely served both a military and a status-related purpose for its owner. The excavation, led by Bartłomiej Kaczyński from the State Archaeological Museum in Warsaw, revealed that the site was once an ancient sand dune, with prehistoric artifacts found there since the 19th century. Among the artifacts discovered were iron axes, a sword, and various tools that indicate the introduction of iron metallurgy by the Celts in this region. These findings challenge the previous belief that Celtic interactions with northern populations were minimal and sporadic. Kaczyński posits that the Celts settled in this area primarily to secure their access to amber, a highly valued resin that was abundant along the Baltic Sea coast. The presence of amber ornaments and semi-finished products at the site further supports this theory, indicating that Łysa Góra was a crucial trading post on the amber route connecting different regions. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Celtic expansion but also highlights the importance of trade networks in ancient Europe. The findings suggest that the Celts had established significant and sustained interactions with the northern communities, which were vital for their economic and cultural exchanges.