The Etruscan civilization first appeared in central Italy in the 8th century BCE. Distinctive archaeological finds and the fact that the Etruscan language still has not been completely deciphered add to the mystique of this particular culture.

Etruscan culture was the most highly developed in Italy until Roman times. In spite of a strong Greek influence on their culture, inscriptions and other finds indicate that the Etruscans were not originally of Greek stock.

Richly ornamented graves provide the source of the Etruscan archaeological finds: metal and ceramic objects show a high artistic and technical standard. The display here includes several characteristic sculptures and pottery vessels.