The ancient civilization recognized for its contributions to philosophy and the arts in Europe is Ancient Greece. Flourishing from the 8th century BCE to the end of antiquity, Greece produced renowned philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, whose ideas continue to influence Western thought. The Greeks made significant strides in literature, theater, visual arts, and sciences, laying foundational principles that would shape various disciplines. Their achievements, including Olympic Games, architectural innovations, and democratic governance, greatly impacted subsequent European civilization and fostered an enduring legacy celebrated for its cultural and intellectual vigor.