The Etruscan Civilization

The Etruscan civilization flourished in ancient Italy, primarily in the 1st millennium BCE, before the rise of Rome. They were known for their advanced society, including skilled metalworking, intricate pottery, and vibrant art. The Etruscans developed a unique language and a complex religious system, with rich funerary practices reflecting their beliefs in the afterlife. They significantly influenced early Roman culture, contributing to architecture, governance, and social customs. The civilization eventually declined, absorbed by the expanding Roman Republic, but their contributions laid important foundations for Rome and Western civilization.