Ancient Greece was a civilization that flourished from around the 8th century BCE to the 6th century CE. It is known for its contributions to philosophy, art, and democracy. Important city-states like Athens and Sparta played significant roles in shaping Greek culture, with notable figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle influencing Western thought. Ancient Rome emerged after Greece, beginning as a small settlement in the 8th century BCE and expanding into a vast empire. It is recognized for its advancements in engineering, law, and governance. Key elements of Roman society include the Senate, Roman law, and monumental architecture like the Colosseum.