Iberians refers to the ancient inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula, which encompasses present-day Spain and Portugal. The term "Iberians" is commonly used to describe the indigenous people who thrived in this region during the prehistoric and ancient periods.
The Iberians were a diverse group of individuals, comprising various tribes and communities that shared a common heritage. Their origins are complex, as they were influenced by diverse cultural and ethnic groups, including the Phoenicians, Celts, Greeks, and Carthaginians, who established colonies in the region.
The Iberians were known for their mastery of agriculture, metalworking, pottery, and trade. They relied on a mixed economy, incorporating farming, fishing, and animal husbandry. They cultivated crops such as cereals, grapes, and olives, using advanced irrigation techniques. Their expertise in metallurgy allowed them to craft intricate tools, weapons, and decorative items.
The Iberians displayed a remarkable artistic ability, creating distinctive pottery known as "Orientalizing" ware, which was heavily influenced by Eastern Mediterranean cultures. They also left behind impressive and elaborate stone sculptures, often depicting humans and animals.
The dominance of the Iberians on the peninsula began to fade with the arrival of the Romans in the 3rd century BC. Rome eventually conquered the Iberian territories, assimilating and integrating the Iberians into their own expansive empire. Nevertheless, the Iberians left an enduring legacy in the development of the Iberian Peninsula's cultural, artistic, and economic foundations.
