lucumones

Lucumones were a class of Etruscan aristocrats who held significant religious and political power. The term itself is thought to derive from the Etruscan word for "chosen" or "elected." These individuals were not hereditary rulers in the same way as kings, but rather were selected from prominent families. They held positions of authority, often serving as magistrates or priests.

The role of a lucumo was deeply intertwined with religious observance and the interpretation of omens, particularly the flight of birds and the examination of animal entrails. This connection to divination suggests a close relationship between religious and secular power in Etruscan society. Lucumones were responsible for maintaining the correct rituals and ensuring the favor of the gods. Their authority was likely reinforced by their perceived ability to communicate with the divine and guide the community according to divine will.

While the exact structure and duration of their power are not fully understood due to the limitations of surviving Etruscan texts, evidence suggests that lucumones formed a ruling elite. They were likely responsible for important decisions concerning the city-state, including matters of war, peace, and law. The influence of the lucumones waned over time as Etruscan city-states evolved and, in some cases, adopted different forms of governance, but they represent a crucial element of early Etruscan political and religious organization.