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Tuesday, 4 March 2025

The Celts' astronomical secrets: The Chão de Lamas lunula and the Coligny calendar connection

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Palaeohispanica has shed light on the ancient timekeeping practices of the Celts, centering on a unique piece of jewelry known as the lunula from the Chão de Lamas treasure in Portugal. Conducted by Professor Roberto Matesanz Gascón from the University of Valladolid, the research posits that this intricately designed gold artifact may hold crucial information regarding the synchronization of lunar and solar cycles within the Celtic calendar.

Traditionally viewed as a mere decorative item, the lunula — shaped like a half-moon and discovered in Chão de Lamas (Miranda do Corvo, Coimbra) — has now been reinterpreted. Matesanz's analysis of its complex geometric patterns suggests that it could serve as a visual representation of a Celtic calendrical cycle lasting 114 years. This timeframe aligns with six Metonic cycles, each spanning 19 years, which is a known astronomical framework that facilitates the alignment of lunar and solar calendars.

The Coligny calendar, an important epigraphic source from France dating back to the 2nd century AD, provides detailed insights into how the Celts structured their time. It organizes time into five-year cycles comprising 62 months, totaling 1,835 days. However, scholars have long debated how these cycles correspond to the tropical year of 365.24 days....<<<Read More>>>...