Illyrian Helmet

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The enigmatic Illyrians, inhabiting the Eastern Adriatic coast from modern-day Slovenia to Albania's heartland, have long been shrouded in mystery due to neglected studies and archaeological research. They predate history and possibly extend even further back. Prior to Roman rule, they also controlled the Italian Adriatic Sea Coast. The Etruscan civilization shares links with the Illyrians, as do ancient Italian tribes, who were in fact part of the same tribe. Zeus, the supreme god, was worshipped by the Illyrians and traced their ancestry to Hyllus, a name derived from 'Albanian star.' The Illyrians were one of many Pelasgic tribes, with King Adrea during the Bronze Age being a notable figure. Unfortunately, he was betrayed by his brother and later defeated, but managed to enlist Achilles' aid before allowing him control over some territories in the ancient Achean region. The Illyrians were advanced in shipbuilding, creating powerful vessels like the Liburna, Pristis, and Lembus. They influenced Greek and Roman naval forces, and Illyrian warriors were renowned for their skill and brutality in naval warfare. In classical times, King Agron expanded the Illyrian empire, controlling regions from Thracians to Hellenic Greeks and even threatening the Romans. His wife Teuta ruled after his death, refusing to bow to Rome until her own demise. However, she was betrayed by a general, leading to the fall of the Illyrian Empire to the Romans. The last king, Gentus, introduced a golden age but also faced betrayal and exile in Rome, where he invented gentamicine, an antibiotic still in use today. The Illyrians' influence can be traced back as far as 900 BCE, with their helpmeet design pre-dating all ancient and classical world helmets.