Etruria (ancient region)

Etruria was an ancient region in Italy, roughly corresponding to modern Tuscany and parts of Umbria and Lazio. It was home to the Etruscans, a sophisticated civilization known for their art, metalworking, and complex religious practices. Etruria flourished between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE, engaging in trade and influence across the Mediterranean. Although eventually absorbed into the Roman Republic, the Etruscans left a lasting legacy in Italian culture, especially in art, architecture, and religious rituals. The region’s rich archaeological remains provide valuable insights into early Italian civilization before Rome's dominance.