The Elamite people were an ancient civilization that inhabited the region of Elam, located in what is now southwestern Iran. They thrived from around 2700 BCE to 539 BCE, developing a unique culture and language distinct from their neighbors, such as the Mesopotamians. The Elamites are known for their contributions to art, architecture, and trade. Elamite society was organized into city-states, with Susa being one of the most prominent cities. They engaged in various activities, including agriculture and metallurgy, and had a complex system of writing known as Elamite script. The Elamites played a significant role in the history of the ancient Near East before their eventual conquest by the Persian Empire.