The Etruscans existed in Italy before the founding of Rome and, although the exact date of their origin is unclear, it is known that they were a people with their own unique language.
During the peak of Etruscan power, around the time Rome was founded, the civilization spread to different regions from Etruria (that included today’s Tuscany, Western Umbria and Northern Lazio) to Campania.
There is evidence to suggest that the very area where Rome was to be founded had been also under Etuscan influence.
The various Etruscan tombs discovered in Italy over the years have provided a wealth of information.
Several elaborate tombs appear to have been built for entire families rather than an individual.
Unlike women in Greek and Roman societies, it appears that Etruscan women had a lot of freedom, which might have been misunderstood by the other two civilizations.
The Etruscans were also known for believing in the importance of the equality given to women within their society.
I'm so proud to have this terracotta Etruscan plate, which belonged to one of my mother's step-sisters.
Sometimes I wonder who made it…an artisan of remote times and I nearly feel dizzy, as if I sank back into the past.