Classical Celtic Wicca is inspired by the ancient Celtic-Roman blend of Pagan religion which was practiced throughout most of Europe and Britain in the first through fifth centuries. This path, relatively unexplored in modern Paganism, was for hundreds of years the central religious expression of the Western world.
Conflict between the ancient Celtic and Roman civilizations is a popular historic theme, but was only a short episode in their common history. The two cultures also shared four centuries of cooperation and prosperity after that time, in which their gods and religions were successfully intermingled.
At left: A Romano-Celtic temple, with high-roofed sanctuary surrounded by a portico.
Drawing: George C. Boon, Roman Silchester, 1957.
Many inscriptions and sculptures honor deities who bear both Celtic and Roman names (the goddess Sulis Minerva, honored at Bath, is perhaps the best known).. Another group of votive carvings honors divine marriages between Roman and Celtic deities, such as Mercury and Rosmerta. In addition, a distinct style of Romano-Celtic temple is known from archaeological remains.
Classical Celtic Wicca honors the spirit of this time, both because of the energy and inspiration it offers and because it provides a valuable model for Pagan religion in a multicultural world.
As this path evolves, those who study and worship within it will find a wealth of historical information to guide them, and a powerful spiritual connection to inspire them.
If this path intrigues you, we encourage you to seek more information. In this first version of our Web site, we offer a list of perhaps the best-known of the hundreds of Classical Celtic deities, plus a list of books we have found valuable in our research.
Serious seekers may wish to inquire about apprenticeships with the Temple of Brigantia, or attend one of our open Full Moon rituals in Wells, Maine.
May the blessings of the Gods go with you.
| Cassius Julianus cassius622@aol.com |
Jane Raeburn jane@janeraeburn.com |
| Temple of Brigantia · P.O. Box 1897 · Wells, ME 04090 | |