The ancient civilization known for its city-states and polytheism is Ancient Greece. Flourishing between the 8th century BC and the Roman conquest, this civilization comprised numerous city-states, including Athens, Sparta, and Corinth, each with its own government, laws, and customs. The Greeks were polytheistic, worshipping a pantheon of gods and goddesses such as Zeus, Hera, and Athena. This belief system played a significant role in their culture, influencing art, literature, and daily life. Ancient Greece is often hailed as the cradle of Western civilization, known for its contributions to philosophy, democracy, theater, and the sciences.