The Etruscans are widely considered the first great cultural and military power in the peninsula. They had a developed society, good technological knowledge, a complex language, and a complex spiritual system. Their refined aesthetics were powerful enough to influence their most famous neighbors, the Romans. Still today, the elegance of their art remains symbolic of the greatness of their civilization.
The war-oriented Romans caused their fall, but the Etruscan influence on their society and culture remained strong. Indeed, when we Italians think about our ancient ancestors and the great things they did for Western Civilization, we should give the Etruscans way more credit than we often do.
