The historical period known for the flourishing of the arts and sciences in Europe is the Renaissance. Spanning roughly from the 14th to the 17th century, the Renaissance marked a cultural rebirth inspired by the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome. This era saw remarkable achievements in literature, visual arts, philosophy, and scientific inquiry, characterized by an emphasis on humanism, individualism, and the exploration of human experience. Notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo made significant contributions that transformed art and laid the groundwork for modern science. The Renaissance profoundly influenced the course of Western civilization and cultural development.