The Etruscans are often regarded as one of the most mysterious nations of the Iron Age Mediterranean. One reason that they are so mysterious is that their language has not yet been deciphered, so we cannot read their inscriptions. Historians instead have to rely on reports from other nations, such as the Greeks and the Romans, and the enlightening discoveries of archaeologists.

There is still considerable debate over where the Etruscans came from. This is not just a mystery that modern scholars are interested in. Even in ancient times, this issue was a matter of interest and debate. Some ancient historians wrote extensively on the subject. Modern archaeology has certainly helped to provide more information, but the issue is still far from settled.