The Italian Peninsula
The Italian Peninsula has a rich and fascinating ancient history that has had a profound impact on the world. From the Etruscans and the Greeks to the Romans and the Byzantines, the peninsula has been home to some of the most influential civilizations in history. The legacy of these ancient cultures can be seen in the art, architecture, and literature of Italy, as well as in its language and traditions. The ancient ruins of Rome, Pompeii, and other cities are a testament to the enduring legacy of these civilizations, and continue to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.
We focus here on the art and architecture that the Etruscans and Ancient Romans crafted on the Italian peninsula during ancient times. Not only did these civilizations contribute their own unique art, they also spread the innovations of the Ancient Greeks to the larger world. The Etruscans lived in present-day Tuscany and had a rich culture. They built up material wealth as merchants, and also thanks to an abundant supply of minerals. They used non-durable materials like clay and mud-brick so much that they created has been lost, but they left behind elaborate funeral tombs and decorative jewelry. The Ancient Romans overthrew the Etruscans and conquered the entire Italian peninsula as well as neighboring regions. They created their own art but also incorporated the styles of other peoples and cultures. But perhaps the greatest contribution of the Ancient Romans was concrete construction, enabling the creation of huge, vaulted ceilings and domes that didn’t need internal supports. This revolutionized architectural design and the buildings that were created still inspire us today.