Ancient Geography, a country of the Hither Spain, along the right or south-west side of the river Iberus; though sometimes the greatest part of Spain was called by the name Celtiberia. The people were denominated Celtiberi, or the Celtæ seated on the Iberus. They were brave and very warlike; their cavalry in particular was excellent. They wore a black and rough cloak, the shag of which was like goats hair. Some of them had light bucklers like the Gauls: others hollow and round ones like those of other nations. They all wore boots made of hair, and iron helmets adorned with crests of a purple colour. They used swords which cut on both sides, and poniards of a foot long. Their arms were of an admirable temper, and are said to have been prepared in the following manner: they buried plates of iron underground, where they let them remain till the rust had eaten the weakest part of the metal, and the rest was consequently hard and firm. Of this excellent iron they made their swords, which were so strong and well tempered, that there was neither buckler nor helmet that could resist their edge. The Celtiberians were very cruel towards their enemies and malefactors, but showed the greatest humanity to their guests. They not only cheerfully granted their hospitality to strangers who travelled in their country, but were desirous that they should seek protection under their roof.

Celtis. See Botany Index.