Lucius Tarquinius Priscus was the fifth king of ancient Rome, reigning from 616 to 579 BCE. He is known for his military conquests and significant contributions to the city's infrastructure, including the construction of the Circus Maximus and the expansion of the Roman Senate. His reign marked a period of growth and development for the early Roman state. Priscus was originally from Tarquinia, an Etruscan city, and he rose to power after marrying the daughter of the previous king, Ancus Marcius. His rule is often associated with the establishment of various religious and cultural institutions, which helped shape the identity of Rome in its formative years.