Celtiberian Range
Celtiberian Range
The Celtiberian Range, also known as the Serranía Celtibérica, is a mountainous region located in the central-northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. It is an area of historical and cultural significance due to its association with the ancient Celtiberians, a group of Celts and Celticised peoples.
Geography
The Celtiberian Range is characterized by its rugged terrain and is part of the larger Iberian System (Sistema Ibérico), a chain of mountain ranges that traverse the eastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. The range extends through several provinces, including Guadalajara, Zaragoza, Teruel, Cuenca, and Soria. Its most notable peaks and landscapes include the Sierra de Vicort.
Historical Significance
The Celtiberian Range holds a significant place in the history of the Iberian Peninsula due to its connection with the Celtiberians. During the final centuries BCE, the Celtiberians inhabited this area, which became a center of resistance against the Roman conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The First Celtiberian War (181-179 BCE) was among the series of conflicts between the Celtiberians and the expanding Roman Republic.
Notably, the region contains several archaeological sites, including the remains of the ancient Celtiberian and Romano-Celtiberian town of Segeda-Sekeiza, which was an important center during the Roman period. The area also has remnants of pre-Roman settlements and artifacts that provide insight into the Celtiberian way of life.
Archaeological Findings
The Celtiberian Range is rich in archaeological heritage. Excavations have uncovered various Paleohispanic scripts used by the Celtiberians. The scripts include the Celtiberian script, part of a broader category of Paleohispanic scripts, which also encompass the Iberian and Greco-Iberian alphabet. These scripts offer valuable insights into the language and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Modern Context
In contemporary times, the Celtiberian Range is sometimes referred to as South Lapland or Spanish Lapland due to its sparse population and rural character, drawing a parallel with the remote and sparsely populated areas of Lapland in Finland and Sweden. The region’s low population density and economic challenges make it a focus of rural development initiatives.