Recent excavations at the Łysa Góra site in Poland’s Mazovia region have led to the discovery of a remarkable bronze Celtic helmet, dating back to the 4th century BCE. This helmet, along with nearly 350 other artifacts, underscores the historical presence of the Celts in northeastern Poland. The excavation, conducted by the State Archaeological Museum in Warsaw and the University of Warsaw, has significant implications for our understanding of Celtic influence in the region.
The helmet’s unique characteristics
Dr Bartłomiej Kaczyński, who led the excavation, emphasized the helmet’s rarity: “This is a rare artifact and an example of advanced Celtic metallurgy.” Initially mistaken for a bronze vessel, the helmet was identified by researchers (including Dr Andrzej Maciałowicz from the University of Warsaw) through distinctive features such as a neck guard and the calotte, confirming its La Tène style. “When we uncovered the shape of the calotte, we no longer had any doubts that we had a very rare artifact,” said Kaczyński. Wojciech Borkowski, the deputy director of the State Archaeological Museum in Warsaw, called it “the first helmet of its kind found in Poland, and the oldest ancient helmet ever uncovered in the country”.
Local crown
The presence of this helmet and other La Tène artifacts suggests that Celtic culture and trade networks extended further into northern Poland than previously believed. Kaczynski explained that the helmet likely belonged to a Celtic elite, serving as a symbol of status rather than solely for military protection. “Visible and shiny from a distance, it indicated the exceptional position of the owner,” he remarked, highlighting its role as a tribal “crown.”
Broader discoveries at Łysa Góra
The excavations revealed a wealth of Iron Age objects, including iron axes, spearheads, and sickles, indicating the site’s importance as a trading hub, particularly in the amber trade. Evidence of a defensive settlement, including burn marks suggesting conflicts with groups like the Vandals, further illustrates the area’s historical significance.
In addition to the helmet, the farming and woodworking tools that were discovered provide insight into the everyday lives of the settlement’s residents, many of whom engaged in agriculture and livestock rearing. Kaczynski highlighted the discovery of a blade, likely used for shearing sheep. Furthermore, unique artifacts from the West Baltic Kurgan culture were uncovered, including intricate multi-coiled armlets that were typically worn by women. “The abundance of discoveries shows that we have more work ahead of us than we initially thought,” said Kaczyński.
Restoration and future exhibitions
Although the helmet was found in poor condition, it is currently undergoing restoration at the State Archaeological Museum, with plans to display it from 2026. This remarkable find at Łysa Góra not only enhances our knowledge of Celtic presence in Poland but also highlights the importance of continued archaeological exploration in uncovering the complexities of ancient cultures.
Celtic helmet found in Mazovia. Credit: B. Kaczyński / State Archaeological Museum
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