Greece was a Mediterranean country. The Greek city-states were all near water. They were separated by a hilly countryside. Some famous Greeks include: ALexander the Great (one of the greatest geniuses in history), Archimedes (an astronomer who founded many math and science concepts), Hesiod (a famous poet), and Jason (although, he is a "myth").
Like, Greece, Rome was a Mediterranean country and was located not so far away from Italy. Although, Rome was inland near the Tiber River.