Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Tarquinia was one of the principal cities of ancient Etruria, the most powerful nation in pre-Roman Italy. This book charts the history of the site and its interpretation, from its use in early propaganda under the Medici and other Tuscan rulers, right up to the twentieth century.
Synopsis
Tarquinia was one of the principal cities of ancient Etruria, the most powerful nation in pre-Roman Italy, and has been at the forefront of Etruscan studies since the early days of antiquarian scholarship. The lack of Etruscan literature and problems with the interpretation of ancient sources have given archaeology a very significant role to play in understanding this elusive civilisation. Robert Leighton charts the history of the site and its interpretation, from its use in early propaganda under the Medici and other Tuscan rulers, to nineteenth-century interest in the discovery of the painted tombs, for which the site is famous, and twentieth-century concentration on the extensive prehistoric burial grounds which provide evidence for the 'proto-Etruscan' Villanovan culture. He considers the significance of Etruscan art in the Archaic period, a topic of hot debate, setting it in the context of economic organisation, long-distance trade and the important role of Tarquinia's port of Gravisca. Recent explorations of the city walls and public and religious buildings of Hellenistic and later date are also discussed.
Synopsis
Tarquinia was one of the great cities of ancient Etruria, where the most powerful, creative and, sometimes, elusive civilization of pre-Roman Italy emerged. The archaeology of Tarquinia has been at the forefront of Etruscan studies since the early days of antiquarian scholarship and is renowned for its unique painted tombs and vast cemeteries. Drawing on archaeological, artistic and written evidence, Robert Leighton charts the extraordinary growth and transformation of the city from later prehistory until late antiquity, with reference to social, political and economic trends in each period. He reveals the fascinating process of the city's discovery and interpretation, its place in 18th-century propaganda and scholarship, and the activities and impressions of visitors, from antiquaries to eminent writers and poets, including Stendhal and D.H. Lawrence. He also assesses more recent work on the interpretation of burial rites, the significance of tomb frescos, religious and public buildings, and on Tarquinia's fateful relationship with Rome.
Synopsis
Tarquinia was one of the principal cities of ancient Etruria, the most powerful nation in pre-Roman Italy. This book charts the history of the site and its interpretation, from its use in early propaganda under the Medici and other Tuscan rulers, right up to the twentieth century.
About the Author
Robert Leighton is an Honorary Fellow of the Department of Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh and author of Sicily Before History: an archaeological survey from the Palaeolithic to the Iron Age, also published by Duckworth.