There is little direct archeological evidence for the traditions of the original Druids, however there are written accounts which offer fascinating insights into this mysterious and important hierarchy in ancient Celtic kingdoms.
Classical Accounts of the Druids
Classical writers of the first century BC and the beginning of the following millennium wrote of the Celts and of their enigmatic leaders, the Druids. Many Roman writers drew on earlier Greek accounts. These accounts describe the Druids as the priests of Celtic society, widely respected, holding responsibilities for lawmaking, as the keepers of knowledge and wisdom, and as magicians or shaman.
An explanation of the lack of direct documentary evidence of the Druids is given by Caesar, who said of the Gaulish Druids that, “they consider it improper to entrust their studies to writing.” Most of these writers referred to the Druids’ secret ceremonies, their love of sacred groves, and also spoke of human sacrifices.
It must be borne in mind that the Romans were the ultimate victors in a long standing struggle between Celtic and Roman civilizations. Indeed, one of the most vivid accounts of the ancient Druids is given by Tacitus in his description of the battle for Isle of Anglesey, ultimately won by the Roman forces, in present day Wales: “Women were seen running through the ranks in wild disorder; their apparel funeral; their hair loose to the wind, in their hands flaming torches, and their whole appearance resembling the frantic rage of the Furies.
"The Druids were ranged in order, with hands uplifted, invoking the gods, and pouring forth horrible imprecations. The novelty of the fight struck the Romans with awe and terror.”
Oral Histories of the Druids pass into Myth and Legend
Irish and Welsh Myths which were written down in the medieval period are believed to originate much further back, handed down through generations by the Druidic storytellers or bards. Irish Myths are particularly rich in Druidic folklore, while the Welsh Druidic tales are scarcer.
Druids and the Coligny Calendar
One remarkable piece of direct archeological evidence of the ancient Druids remains. The Coligny Calendar, discovered in Eastern France, features festivals which were known to have been celebrated by the Irish Celts, including Samhain. This evidence suggests a very geographically widespread and organized cycle of religious festivals.
Related Articles
Readers may also enjoy Stonehenge and the Druids, along with discovering Modern Druid Organizations.
Sources:
- The Rebirth of Druidry, Philip Carr-Gomm
- Exploring the World of the Druids, Miranda J. Green
- Megalithia by Richard Mudhar
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