Brought to light

Renée Dreyfus | Art and Antiques | 2nd May 2026

The Etruscans shaped the Mediterranean world and were “principal contributors” to pre-Roman culture. Based near today’s Tuscany, they were sophisticated, highly religious and unlike the Greeks respectful of women. Togas, urban planning, hydraulic engineering, winemaking, “Roman” numerals, all came from them. Their art included fine jewellery and elegant painted pottery. Says a curator, “in art, religion, engineering, architecture, Rome really stood on the shoulders of the Etruscans.” A video is here.