The Epizephyrian Greeks were a group of ancient Greek settlers who established a colony in the region of Southern Italy, specifically near the modern town of Taranto. They were part of the larger wave of Greek colonization that occurred during the 8th century BCE, seeking new lands for trade and agriculture. This colony was named after the nearby Zephyr, the west wind, which was believed to bring favorable weather. The Epizephyrian Greeks contributed to the cultural and economic development of the area, blending their traditions with those of the local Italic tribes and influencing the region's history.