Cære

Cære, also known as Cerveteri, is an ancient Etruscan city located in Lazio, Italy, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Rome. The city is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The necropolis, which served the ancient city of Cære, contains thousands of tombs, many of which are elaborate and date from the Villanovan period through the Roman era.

The most famous tombs within the necropolis are the tumulus tombs, which are large, circular structures covered by earth mounds. These tombs often mimic the layout of Etruscan homes, featuring a central atrium, rooms, and even furniture carved from stone. The walls of some tombs are adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and mythological events, offering invaluable insights into Etruscan culture and beliefs. Notable examples include the Tomb of the Reliefs, decorated with stuccoed reliefs of household items and tools, and the Tomb of the Capitals, characterized by its distinctive carved capitals.

The Etruscans were a civilization that flourished in central Italy before the rise of Rome. Cære was one of their most important cities, a thriving center of trade and culture. The Etruscans had a sophisticated society, with advanced skills in metallurgy, art, and architecture. Their influence on Roman civilization is significant, with many Roman customs and practices having Etruscan origins. The archaeological discoveries at Cære have been crucial in understanding this enigmatic civilization.