The word “tapestry” is considered to have been derived from the Greek word “tapetion”. Indeed, preserved fragments of Greek tapestries have been found that are thought to be from the 3rd century B.C. Egyptian paintings circa 3000 B.C. show weavers working on large looms similar to those used to make tapestries. This ancient art form died out as a part of Western culture and did not re-emerge until the 8th century when the Moors, who occupied Spain, reintroduced this textile art to Europe. From Spain, the industry spread to France and the Netherlands which both became centers of the production of European tapestries.