What crops did the Celts grow and what animals they keep?

The Celts were a diverse group of people who lived across a vast area of Europe, so their agricultural practices varied depending on the region and the time period. However, we can generalize some of their common crops and livestock:

Crops:

* Cereals: The Celts primarily grew wheat, barley, and oats for food and drink. These grains were the foundation of their diet.

* Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas provided important protein sources and were likely grown in rotation with cereals.

* Vegetables: Cabbage, onions, turnips, and leeks were common vegetables in Celtic gardens.

* Fruits: Apples, pears, plums, and berries were likely grown in Celtic regions, though their cultivation may have been limited to warmer areas.

* Flax: This plant was essential for producing linen, which was used for clothing and other purposes.

Animals:

* Cattle: Cows were a primary source of milk, meat, and hides.

* Sheep: Sheep were raised for wool, meat, and milk.

* Pigs: Pigs were raised for meat and were also used as a form of currency in some Celtic societies.

* Goats: Goats were kept for milk and meat in some regions.

* Horses: Horses were important for transportation and warfare.

* Chickens: Chickens were raised for eggs and meat, though evidence for their widespread presence during the Celtic period is not as strong as for other livestock.

Important Considerations:

* Regional Differences: Celtic agriculture was highly dependent on local climate and geography. For example, farmers in the northern regions of Europe might have focused more on livestock than crop cultivation.

* Time Period: The Celtic culture spanned a long period, and their agricultural practices evolved over time. Early Celtic societies likely relied more on hunting and gathering, while later groups developed more sophisticated farming methods.

* Limited Archaeological Evidence: While we have some evidence of Celtic agriculture, it is still difficult to get a complete picture of their farming practices due to the limited archaeological remains.

It's important to remember that the Celts were not a monolithic group. They were a diverse collection of tribes and cultures, and their agricultural practices reflected this diversity.