Celtiberia

Celtiberia was an ancient region located in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula, roughly corresponding to modern-day Spain. It was inhabited by the Celtiberians, a group of Celtic tribes who migrated to the region from the north during the Iron Age. The name "Celtiberia" is derived from the Latin words "Celtae" (Celts) and "iber" (Iberians), reflecting the mixed cultural heritage of the region.

The Celtiberians established a series of cities and settlements, many of which were fortified with walls and towers. These cities were often located on strategic hilltops, providing natural defenses against potential invaders. Some of the most notable Celtiberian cities include Numantia, which is known for its resistance against Roman forces in the 2nd century BC, and Segóbriga, which was a major center of Celtic culture and trade.

Celtiberia was a significant region during the Punic Wars and the subsequent Roman conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The Celtiberians, along with other Iberian tribes, formed an alliance with the Carthaginians against Rome. However, after the defeat of Carthage in 206 BC, the Celtiberians were forced to submit to Roman rule. The Roman Republic established the province of Hispania Citerior, which included Celtiberia, and began the process of Romanization, integrating the local population into the Roman world.

The Celtic influence in Celtiberia persisted for centuries, and the region played a crucial role in the Roman Empire's expansion into the western Mediterranean. The legacy of the Celtiberians can still be seen in the archaeological sites, linguistic remnants, and cultural traditions that continue to be studied by historians and archaeologists today.