Keltoi

Keltoi is a term with roots in ancient Greek, specifically used by Greek writers to refer to various Celtic peoples inhabiting Europe. The name's precise origin is uncertain, but it is widely understood to be a Greek exonym, meaning a name given by outsiders. Historically, the Keltoi were described by Greek authors such as Hecataeus of Miletus and Herodotus, appearing in their geographical and historical accounts of the Western Mediterranean and beyond.

These ancient Greek sources often associated the Keltoi with regions west of the Greek world, including parts of Gaul, Iberia, and even Britain. Their descriptions, while sometimes vague and based on limited direct contact, frequently touched upon the perceived customs, military practices, and geographical locations of these peoples. The Keltoi were often depicted as a formidable warrior culture, known for their distinctive appearance and societal structures.

The term "Keltoi" gradually fell out of common usage in later classical literature, with other terms like "Galli" (used by the Romans) and "Celtae" becoming more prevalent in describing these groups. However, the historical usage of Keltoi provides valuable insight into how ancient Greeks perceived and categorized the diverse Celtic populations of Iron Age Europe. The study of these ancient texts remains a key source for understanding early interactions and perceptions between the Greek and Celtic worlds.