Write down the names of major cities in Italy. The best cities of italy - a map of italy with cities in Russian, the most beautiful, large italian cities

Rich history developed tourism infrastructure, an abundance of attractions, comfortable hotels, plenty of entertainment, delicious food and the hospitality of local residents - all of these "charms" are directly related to Italy. The country has a large number of cities, each of which has its own unique features. We will talk about the 10 most popular Italian cities for tourists in today's article.

1. Rome. The capital of Italy dates back to 753 BC. In the past, the Roman Empire was considered one of the most powerful not only on the continent, but throughout the world. Today, Rome is a real find for tourists. Here, guests of the city can get acquainted with its ancient history with the help of the preserved ancient Roman Forums, the Pantheon, thermae, triumphal arches. No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the legendary Colosseum. The Middle Ages presented the Italian capital with many architectural monuments: the Trastevere quarter, the Lateran Palace, Villa Madama, Aragon Gonzaga Palace, Alicorni Palace, Villa del Priorato di Malta, Piazza Navona, etc. Travelers will be introduced to the cultural side of the city and the state by the National Roman Museum, the National Gallery contemporary art, the Capitoline, the Vatican Museums, the Lateran and Borghese galleries. An integral part of Rome are its religious buildings: the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral of St. Petra, the Sistine Chapel, the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, the Church of Santa Maria della Concecione, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio e Carlo al Corso, the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano, etc. No less interesting Italian capital for nature lovers. In the city you can visit the Avetinsky Hill, Pincho Park, Janiculum Hill, the city botanical garden, Palatine Hill, the palace and park complex "Nero's House".
   Do not forget about the Vatican - a small independent state, which is located on the right bank of the Tiber. Here you can see many medieval churches built by famous architects and decorated by the best Italian sculptors and artists.
2. Florence. This city is located in Italian region Tuscany on the Arno. Florence acquired the status of a city around the middle of the 3rd century, and a century later it turned into the residence of the local bishop. Today this city is called the "Cradle of the Renaissance". Many outstanding personalities were born here: Leonardo da Vinci, Amerigo Vespucci, Dante, Nicolo Machiavelli, Galileo, Michelangelo, Donatello and others. Today Florence is in the top five most popular Italian cities. Guests of the city will have to get acquainted with many religious attractions: the Cathedral (Duomo), the Basilica of Santo Spirito, the Church of Santissima Annunziata, the Temple of San Lorenzo, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, the Church of Santa Croce, the Basilica of San Marco, etc. new knowledge about art is possible with the help of cultural heritage a city located in the following institutions: the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace Museum, the National Museum in the Bargello Palace, the Uffizi Gallery, the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore Museum, etc. The Vecchio, Medici Riccardi, Strozzi, Rucellai and numerous squares are recognized as architectural masterpieces of the city : Republic, St. Mark, St. Trinity, Senoria, Liberty, Santissima Annunziata, All Saints. Of particular note is the statue of David, located in the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence. No less popular natural objects Cities: Torrigiani Gardens, Boboli Gardens, Cascine Park, etc.
3. Milan. This northern metropolis is the second in the list of major Italian cities. The first founders of Milan are the Celts who lived in northern Italy in 600 BC. In 222 BC. The Romans conquered the city and made it part of their Empire. Today Milan has the status of the financial and economic capital of Italy. It is also known as the most "fashionable" Italian city. Tourists who come to Milan should definitely visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria Nashente and other religious buildings of the city: the churches of Santa Maria del Grazie, Sant'Ambrogio, Sant Cristoforo sul Naviglio, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, the abbey of Santa Maria di Rovegnano, the Basilica of Sant Eustorgio and San Lorenzo Maggiore. The following objects will help you get acquainted with the outstanding architecture of the metropolis: Sforza Castle, the Palace of the Commercial Bank, legal advisers, the Palatine, Borommeo, Senate schools, as well as the unique Royal Palace. It would be an unforgivable omission to refuse to visit the Milanese squares: Duomo, dei Mercanti, San Fedele, Cordusio, La Scala, Royal, etc. Do not forget about museum institutions and galleries: the archaeological museum, the Brera and Ambrosiana Pinacoteca, the Da Vinci Museum, the Risorgimento Museum , museum of science and arts, etc. Milan provides the following facilities for lovers of walks: the park to them. John Paul II, Indro Montanelli City Garden, Sempione Park, Lake Maggiore. Shopping is a must when visiting Milan. To this end, we recommend visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II, designer shops in Duomo Square, Corso Buenos Aires, Brera district, Serravalle Scrivia, FoxTown, Franciacorta Outlet Village, etc.
4. Venice. The world famous "city on the water" is located in northern Italy in the province of Venice. The name of this area is closely related to the first settlers - the Veneti tribe, who named the area Venetia. Urban settlements began to be created in the Venetian Lagoon in the 6th century. Most of the pompous architecture of the city was formed in the XIV-XVI centuries. Venice is big today tourist center which is listed world heritage UNESCO. It hosts world film festivals and art exhibitions, performances by famous theater groups and other events. A distinctive feature of Venice is its specific transport - the river tram. Also in the city there is an opportunity to ride a gondola, or use the services of a river taxi. Arriving in Venice, tourists tend to visit the maximum possible number of attractions. Particularly attractive is the architecture of the city, represented by the following objects: the Doge's Palace, Cathedral Santa Maria Assuanta, Palace of Ca' Vendramin Calergi, Basilica of San Pietro di Castello, Palace of Ca' Dario, Arsenal, Palace of Fondaco dei Turchi, Church of Santa Maria dei Frari, Palace of Contarini del Bovolo, Cathedral of St. Mark, Church of Santa Maria del Giglio, St. Stamp, Rialto Bridge, Constitutions, Sighs. You can get acquainted with works of art in the palaces of CaʼPesaro, Doge, Fortuny, the Accademia Gallery, the Correr Museums and the Palazzo Mocenigo. You can relax from the bustle of the city in the Venetian Gardens, the Rimembranze, Giardinetti Realii and Giardini Pubblizi parks. Do not forget about the numerous islands of the city, as well as river walks along the Grand Canal, which stretches through the whole city.
5. Pisa. The popular cities of Italy cannot do without the presence of Pisa on this list. famous city located in the Tuscany region, 10 km from Ligurian Sea. From 180 BC Pisa is a colony of the Roman Empire. In those days, it served as a naval base. Despite its small size, the city is literally "teeming" with a variety of attractions. Of course, the first in the list of notable Leaning objects is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, located on the Square of Miracles. Next to it are the Baptistery and Pisa Cathedral, as well as the Campo Santo cemetery. In addition, you can see many beautiful architectural monuments and sites in the city: the Church of Santa Maria dela Spina, the Knights' Square, the palaces of Carovana and al Borgo di Corliano, the basilicas of San Nicola, San Paolo a Ripa dʼArno, San Sistoyu, San Frediano, Santo Sepolcro , whole historic quarter San Martino. A visit to Pisa cannot be complete without a visit to the following places: the San Matteo Museum, the Borgo Stretto Gallery, botanical garden, city university, etc.
6. Verona. A northeastern city located in the region of Venice. Verona became part of the Roman Empire in 80 BC. Every year, the city hosts a summer opera festival, which attracts people from all over the world. Verona is also known as the Italian city of romance and love. Arriving here, tourists admire the extraordinary beauty of the city, its development and abundance of attractions. To architectural monuments The Italian city includes the ancient Roman amphitheater Arena di Verona, Juliet's house, the Castelvecchio castle, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, the Erbe case, the Lamberti tower, the Palace of Reason, the Ponte Pietra bridges, the Scaligers, the house of merchants, the Maffei Palace, the city's cathedral. In Verona, there is an opportunity to visit interesting museums: in the Castellvecchio castle, a gallery of modern art, archaeological, canonical museums, a museum of frescoes, an episcopal library, etc. For nature lovers, the Giusti garden and park complex, Francescatti Garden, Sigurta Park are open in the city.
7. Genoa. This Italian city is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea in the picturesque region of Liguria. Genoa became a famous port in the 10th century, and in the 12th century it acquired the status of an independent state. Today, the capital of Liguria offers its guests a lot of entertainment and excursions, during which tourists will get acquainted with architectural masterpieces (the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Porta Soprano, the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata del Vastato, Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, Staglieno cemetery, Lanterna lighthouse, palaces dei Roli, Ducale, Bianco, Rosso, Church of Sant'Agostino), walk along the beautiful Garibaldi Street and Piazza Ferrari, visit the Oriental Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the gallery of the Rosso Palace and Modern Art, the Paper Museum, the Maritime Museum, the Garibaldi, Iginiano museums, etc. No less beautiful nature of Genoa, which can be appreciated in natural park"Aveto".
8. Rimini. This beautiful resort town is located in the Emilia-Romagna region on the coast Adriatic Sea. In 268 BC. Rimini became a colony of the Roman Empire. In addition to a full beach holiday guests of the resort will see many interesting sights: the Castel Sismondo castle, the House of the Surgeon, the Briolli Palace, the Malatesta Temple, Cavour Square, the Clock Tower, the Tiberius Bridge, the Arch of Augustus, the Italy in Miniature Park, the Rimini Fiera exhibition complex, the city and ethnographic museums, Marechia Park, etc.
9. Pompeii. Near Naples is the world-famous Italian city of Pompeii, which is associated with a terrible tragedy that occurred in 79. The volcano Vesuvius buried the prosperous city under a layer of ash. Today Pompeii is a famous museum under open sky which is on the UNESCO heritage list. Visitors to the city will see a large number of ancient buildings: the amphitheater, the Porta Marina gate, the Odeon, the Lupanarium, the basilica, the forum, the temples of Vespasian, Venus, Isis, Jupiter and Apollo, the Stabius Baths, the house of the Faun, the Perfumer, the Vettii and the Tragic Poet, the Villa Oplontis, The Bolshoi and Maly theatres, an exhibition of plaster casts, etc. Tourists can buy memorable souvenirs on Plenty Street.
10. Naples. In the bay of the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region, the 3rd largest Italian city, Naples, is located. The city was founded by the Greeks in the 18th century BC. Later it became a colony of the Roman Empire. Tourists visiting Naples will have to get acquainted with a large number of local attractions: the Cathedral of St. Januaria, the castle of Maschio Angioino and Sant Elmo, the Royal Palace, the Archaeological Museum, the Umberto I Gallery, the catacombs of Napoli Sotteranea, the municipality square, the palace and national museum di Capodimonte, the church of St. Clara, the Fontanelle Cemetery, the Museum of the Arts of Health, the majestic Vesuvius and other architectural and cultural monuments.

Note: There are 448 churches in Naples. The most famous are the chapels of San Lorenzo Maggiore, San Gennaro, Sangro di San Severo, Jesu Novo, etc.

What is Italy famous for? our readers will ask. You will find the answer to this question in the material described above. Fashionable Milan, stunning Venice, majestic Rome, welcoming Rimini, unique Pisa, cultural Florence, historic Pompeii - the list is endless. Each city pleases its guests with an abundance of sights, after viewing which tourists go home with an updated baggage of knowledge, a lot of vivid photographs and indescribable emotions.

In the holiday period that has begun, many of our compatriots choose beautiful Italy as a place to relax. For those who are no longer surprised by the hustle and bustle of the eternal city of Rome and the shopping of Milan, our selection of the coziest Italian cities by the sea.

Probably, each of us has ever dreamed of spending, if not life, then at least a vacation in a quiet village by the sea, drinking coffee and tasting wines in local restaurants, listening to the voices of seagulls and the sound of the surf.

Choose!

(Total 10 photos)

Vernazza is considered the most organic, beautiful and picturesque town of the Italian "five lands" (Cinque Terre) of Liguria. Today, a little over a thousand people live here, so Vernazza is also one of the most quiet towns, and only calm Manarola can compete with him. Against the backdrop of multi-colored multi-storey tower houses, the older medieval walls of galleries, palaces, a monastery and, of course, a castle, whose low walls once guarded the peace of local residents from pirate raids, catch your eye. In the narrow streets of Vernazza, at steep angles going down to the sea, at almost every step you can see boats "parked" by the houses as naturally as the cars that stand in our yards at the entrances look.

Portofino is a resort on the Ligurian coast. It is surrounded by hills covered with olive trees. From the observation windows cable car the whole town is visible at a glance. Guy De Maupassant liked to visit here, who wrote about Portofino: "This green bay in the realm of harmony and peace, so contrasts with all the vain anxieties of our life." It has everything: untouched nature and magnificent beaches, architectural monuments and expensive shops. The former fishing village has turned into an amazing resort that world celebrities love to visit.

Atrani is a small town west coast Italy, Campania region, province of Salerno. Atrani carefully preserves its medieval origin and with its picturesque lanes, arches, courtyards, squares and stairs, it looks like a festive Christmas scenery washed by the sea. During the time of the Amalfi Republic, the most noble families lived in this town. The coronation and burial of the Doges took place here. Atrani is located just 700 meters from Amalfi, in a natural amphitheater, surrounded by huge cliffs rising up. The center of Atrani is far from the noisy roads of the coast, as only local residents are allowed to enter the city: this helps to maintain a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in the town.

Positano is one of the most famous resorts in southern Italy, located on the Gulf of Salerno, on the Amalfi Coast. The beauty of the local landscapes made Positano a mecca for artists back in the 19th century. The town is scattered over three small valleys sandwiched between mountains and the sea. Characteristic colorful houses climb the steep mountain slopes. From almost anywhere in the town offers a magnificent view of the sea. Positano has been known since Roman times. According to legend, it was founded by the god of the sea, Neptune (Poseidon). The islets of Galli off the coast of Positano are mentioned in the Odyssey - according to Homer, it was here that the sirens lived. From the Middle Ages, watchtowers built to protect against Saracen pirates have been preserved in the town.

Ravello is a city of music with romantic gardens, cool alleys and medieval architecture. In the 11th-13th centuries, at the invitation of wealthy merchants, Arab architects came to Ravello and built magnificent palaces here. To this day, Ravello has retained the charm of the ancient village. The rich culture of Ravello is closely linked to its musical heritage. Wagner often rested here, in love with this place, which inspired him to write many of his famous works. Every year in the summer, a festival of symphonic music named after him is held here. From the slopes of the terrace on which Ravello is located, magnificent landscapes of the Amalfi Coast open up.

Manarola is a small fishing town in Liguria, northern Italy. The city is located on a cliff hanging over a wild coastline Ligurian Sea. It is also one of the five cities that make up the Cinque Terre. Manarola is the oldest and one of the smallest cities of the famous five. In the center of the town is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338. In the western part there is a small harbor, and in the east there is a square where locals to discuss any important issues. Even though there is no beach here, it is a good place for scuba diving and exploration of caves and rock crevices. A special staircase was built to descend to the water. The main industry here is traditionally fishing and winemaking. Even in the days of the Roman Empire, the local wine was valued for its excellent taste.

Sorrento has always been known as a prestigious holiday destination: Roman patricians built villas in the vicinity of the city, and Emperor Tiberius himself settled on the nearby island of Capri. Sorrento is located on steep cliffs made of volcanic tuff, breaking off at Gulf of Naples. Tasso Square can be called the heart of Sorrento. It is from here that the main shopping street Via Corso begins, famous for its restaurants, shops and clubs. Sorrento has two ports, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. Every morning, sea rockets leave from Marina Grande for the islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida and the neighboring cities of Positano and Amalfi.

The small town of Rapallo is located 40 kilometers from Genoa. There are many historical monuments- ancient cathedrals and churches, the oldest is the church of St. Gervasio and Protasio, which is mentioned in ancient manuscripts of the VI century. Rapallo is very clean, noble and cozy city. In one of the best hotels XIX century, located on a high bank near the port, Hemingway liked to stop. Every day, snow-white yachts moor to the shores of Rapallo.

Lerici is a bizarre mixture of buildings, small coves and rocky cliffs that pierce the sparkling sea. This is a favorite holiday destination for residents of the northern part of Italy, as here you can enjoy a peaceful comfortable rest away from the crowds of foreign tourists. The main attraction of the town is an old medieval castle.

10 Castiglioncello

Castiglioncello is a small town in the province of Livorno, located on a promontory washed by Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is surrounded by pine and oak forests, as well as picturesque hills that literally break off and fall down, forming rocks, small bays and cozy bays with charming beaches. Even the ancient Romans and Etruscans, and later the Medici in the Renaissance, could not pass by the beauty of these lands. Recently, Castiglioncello has become famous as a resort town, in which Marcello Mastroianni and Luchino Visconti built their villas. The town allows you to lead a calm and measured lifestyle, eliminating unnecessary fuss and noise. Castiglioncello is a secluded resort for the elite. Mass tourism is an unwritten taboo here. Therefore, Castiglioncello attracts many creative people, including the artists who founded the commune here.

Italy is the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Italy, climate, geography, population and culture.

Italy (Repubblica Italiana)

Italy is a state in southern Europe in the center of the Mediterranean, located mostly on the Apennine Peninsula. The country also occupies a small (northwestern) part of the Balkan Peninsula, the Padan Plain, the Southern Alps and a number of large and small islands. mediterranean sea including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy borders France in the northwest, Switzerland and Austria in the north, and Slovenia in the northeast. The state also has internal borders with the Vatican and San Marino. This is a country with the greatest cultural, historical and artistic heritage, the cradle of one of the greatest empires in the history of mankind and the Renaissance.

Italy is one of the most unique and charming places in the world. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Europe, the world's largest treasure trove of history, culture and art, a favorable warm climate and delicious authentic cuisine. However, Italy is far from perfect. Its historical cities and antiquities are suffering from modern development, the infrastructure is working at its peak, there are problems in the economy and the social sphere. But, having been here, you will definitely fall in love with this country for its violent temperament, reckless disposition, delicious cuisine and special atmosphere.

Useful information about Italy

1. The population is 60.8 million people (according to this indicator, Italy ranks 23rd in the world).
2. The area is 301,340 square kilometers.
3. The language is Italian.
4. Currency - euro.
5. Visa - Schengen.
6. Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
7. VAT ( Tax Free) can be returned from the purchase of 154.94 euros.
8. The mains voltage is 220 V, 50 Hz. Attention: Italy uses its own electrical connector, so some devices may require an adapter. It can be bought at any supermarket.
9. Italy is enough safe country. The main thing is to follow basic safety rules and beware of scammers in popular tourist places.
10. Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President. The executive branch is the Parliament, headed by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

Geography and nature

Italy is located in Southern Europe in the Mediterranean. Most of the country lies on the Apennine Peninsula. The area is mostly hilly and mountainous. From the north, Italy is supported by the Southern Alps, and the Apennine Mountains are located on the peninsula. The territory of the country is located at the point of contact of lithospheric plates, so earthquakes are not rare here. In addition, there are several major volcanoes: Etna, Vesuvius, etc.

Italy is a huge coastline. The country is washed by the following seas of the Mediterranean waters: the Adriatic and Ionian in the east, the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian in the west. The largest river is the Po River. Large lakes - Garda, Como.

Thanks to geographical and climatic features very diverse nature of Italy. Although most of the territory has been changed by human activity in antiquity. In the north, on the slopes of the Alps, mixed and coniferous forests grow, on the coast and in the south - subtropical plants. The central part of the country is a mixture of the nature of subtropics and temperate latitudes.

Climate

The climate of Italy is very diverse and can be very different from the Mediterranean in some regions. In most of the territory, summers are very warm and dry, and July is the hottest month. Autumn is usually rainy. Winters are cool and wet (hence often foggy) in the north and milder in the south. In the provinces, which are located in the foothills of the Alps, the climate is mountainous. Summers are cool, while winters are cold and snowy.

Best time to visit

Italy has a favorable warm climate. Although it can be quite cold in the Alps and foothills. To choose the best time to visit, you need to weigh several factors: hotel and food prices, weather, cultural events and seasonal atmosphere. The highest season is summer. If you want to come to Italy to explore its wonderful cultural and historical heritage, then it is better to choose the lowest season - winter. The most optimal time in terms of weather and the number of tourists is April-May and September-October.

Story

The history of Italy is very rich and varied. The country during the period of its existence knew ups and downs, was fragmented and united. In ancient times, a great empire arose on its territory - the Roman Empire. And it is Italy that can be called the cradle of Western civilization.

The territory of modern Italy was inhabited more than 50 thousand years ago. The name of the country comes from a tribe of Italians who settled in a small part of the Emilia-Romagna region in the 5th century BC. Already in the 3rd century, Italy was understood as the entire peninsula up to the Rubicon River, and in the 2nd century - the territory up to the slopes of the Alps. In the pre-Roman period, the Ligurians, Etruscans, Umbrians and even the Gauls lived here.

In 753 BC, Rome was founded on the Tiber River. The Romans gradually began to spread their influence over the entire Apennine Peninsula. Rome was originally ruled by 7 kings. In 509, the kings were replaced by a republic. During the Republican period, an active military expansion to other tribes began. By the 3rd century BC, Rome had conquered much of present-day Italy.

In 390, the Gauls defeated the Roman army, captured and burned Rome.

The growth of the power of Rome and the spread of its influence in the Mediterranean led to a clash with Carthage. As a result of three Punic Wars Carthage was destroyed, and its territory became part of the republic. In the 1st century, the republic was shaken by internal conflicts. First there was an uprising of slaves led by Spartacus. Later erupted Civil War in which Julius Caesar won. He established a dictatorship and laid the foundations for an empire.

After the assassination of Julius Caesar, power passed to Octavian Augustus, who is considered the founder of the Roman Empire. After the death of the first Roman emperor, power passed to Tiberius, who became the first of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The Claudian dynasty ended in the middle of the 1st century AD with the assassination of Nero. Further, until the end of the 1st century, Rome was ruled by the Flavian dynasty, which was replaced first by the Antonin dynasty, and later by the Severs. During this period, the Roman Empire reached the peak of its power and development, owning almost all Southern Europe, a huge part Western Europe and North Africa.

The fall of Rome began in the 4th century. In 330 Emperor Constantine founded Constantinople and moved his capital there. At the end of the 4th century, the Western and Eastern Roman Empires were formed. In the 5th century, the Vandals and Visigoths invaded Italy. Rome was taken and sacked, and the mighty ancient empire fell. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) existed after that for almost a thousand years and fell only in the 15th century.

In the 5th century, the Ostrogoths conquered Italy. In the 6th century, the kingdom of the Lombards arose in the north. In the 8th-11th century, Italy was part of the Frankish empire. Its southern part during this period was captured by the Normans. In the 11th-13th centuries, the Frankish empire was destroyed. The power was concentrated in the "hands" of the Popes. The Kingdom of Sicily and several free states in Northern Italy arose.

In the 13th and 15th centuries, the power of the popes was greatly reduced. Many states arose on the territory of Italy: the kingdom of Naples, the Papal States, the republics and Genoa, Savoy, Milan. At the end of this period, the Renaissance began, with Florence as its cradle.

At the end of the 15th - the first half of the 16th century, several Italian wars broke out. The first Italian war arose because of French claims to the north of the country. French troops occupied Tuscany, Rome and moved towards Naples. But they were stopped by the union of Venice, Milan and Emperor Maximilian. During the second Italian war, France captured Genoa and Milan, and Spain -. As a result of the third war, the Spaniards defeated the French, who were forced to abandon their claims to Italy. In the 16th century, most of its territory was under Spanish influence.

At the beginning of the 18th century, after the War of the Spanish Succession, Italy became part of the Austrian Habsburg Empire. At the end of the 18th century, French troops entered here. At this time, several republics were formed, which later merged into the Italian Republic, in 1805 transformed into a kingdom. During this period, there is a movement for freedom and independence - the Risorgimento. By 1860, the unification of the country around the Sardinian kingdom begins. In 1870, Rome became part of the Italian kingdom, which became its capital.

At the start of World War I, Italy declared its neutrality. But in 1915 she joined the Entente. In 1919, the fascist movement arises here. In 1922, the fascists led by Mussolini came to power. In 1940, Italy entered World War II on the side of Germany. In 1943 she capitulated. Mussolini's regime was overthrown in 1945. In 1947, the Constitution was adopted and the country became a parliamentary republic.

Administrative division

Administratively, Italy is divided into 20 regions: Valle d'Aosta, Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Liguria, Venice, Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia Romagna, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise, Basilicata, Campania , Calabria, Apulia, Sardinia and Sicily. The capital of the country is Rome. The regions, in turn, are divided into provinces, of which there are 110.

Also conditionally Italy can be divided into regions:

• Northwestern Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta) is the richest and most developed region of the country. largest port countries - Genoa, the main financial and business center - Milan, the center of industry and technology - Turin.
• Northeast Italy (Emilia Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto) is a diverse region with beautiful Venice and one of the main student cities - Bologna, charming Parma and romantic Verona. You can find almost everything here, from ski resorts and the natural beauties of South Tyrol to the coast and beaches.
• Central Italy (Lazio, Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria) - breathes history, culture and art. Here are the most important sights of the country and the most famous artistic masterpieces. The cities here need no introduction: the eternal city is the legendary Rome, the cradle of the Renaissance and modern Italian- Florence, ancient Pisa, Lucca and Siena.
• Southern Italy(Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise) - a southern region with incredible temperament: stormy Naples, the dramatic ruins of Pompeii, the romantic coast of Amalfi and Capri.
• The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are beautiful sea and beaches. Here are the most famous resorts Italy.

Population

In terms of population, Italy ranks fourth in the European Union. Over 90% of the population are Italians. Large diasporas: Romanians, immigrants from North Africa, Albanians. The official language is Italian. German is also spoken in Bolzano and South Tyrol, Slovenian in Trieste and French in Aosta.

The Italians themselves are open, friendly, very temperamental and emotional. Although there are differences between the North and the South. So in the north of Italy people are more closed, punctual and pragmatic, while in the South everything is quite the opposite.

Italians are very traditional, proud of their country and cuisine. They love their region very much, have fun and eat well.

Transport

Major international airports:

• Rome - with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO - Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino for low cost airlines.
• Milan - with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). In addition, there is an airport in Bergamo (BGY - Orio al Serchio).
• Bologna (BLQ - Guglielmo Marconi).
• Naples (NAP - Capodichino).
• Pisa (PSA - Galileo Galilei).
• Venice (VCE - Marco Polo).
• Treviso (TSF - Antonio Canova).
• Turin (TRN - Sandro Pertini).
• Palermo (PMO - Punta Raisi).
• Catania (CTA - Vincenzo Bellini).
• Bari (BRI - Palese).
• Genoa (GOA - Cristoforo Colombo).

Railway communication connects Italy with Germany (via Munich), Austria (Vienna, Innsbruck, Villach), France (Paris, Lyon, Nice), Switzerland (Basel, Geneva), Spain (via Barcelona). High-speed trains run to the largest cities in Italy: Rome, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Naples.

Separately, it is worth noting the highways that permeate the entire country. These roads are simply of excellent quality and do not differ in any way from the famous German autobahns, except that they are paid. When entering the motorway, you need to take a special ticket. When leaving, you need to give this ticket to the cashier or insert it into a special machine. Cash and bank cards are accepted for payment. Payment methods are indicated on special signs.

Cities of Italy

Italy has hundreds of popular cities worth visiting. Almost every city boasts interesting sights and rich history. But there are places that you must see. Our Top 10 cities in Italy:

1. Rome is the capital of Italy and one of its oldest cities. A place where history literally froze on the streets, and sights have long become symbols of the whole country.
2. - one of the most romantic cities in the world. A unique place with canals, bridges, gondolas and wonderful architecture.
3. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, the city where Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, Michelangelo and dozens of other geniuses were born. The capital of Tuscany will amaze you with museums and art collections.
4. Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Modern metropolis, financial and business center of the country. If you are interested in shopping, this is the right place for you.
5. - the capital of the Italian south. An ancient city with a southern temperament and the birthplace of pizza.
6. - one of the most romantic cities in Italy, where you can touch the history and feel like the heroes of Shakespeare.
7. Bologna is the gastronomic capital of the country, a city of youth, culture and art.
8. Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany with the famous leaning tower.
9. Turin is the first capital of the United Italy, a city of industry and technology.
10. Genoa is the largest Italian port, a city with a rich history and many attractions.

Other places of interest:

• Lake Garda and Como and a gem Dolomites- Bries.
• The Italian Alps and South Tyrol - picturesque nature and stunning mountains.
• Amalfi is a rocky coastline with beautiful towns.
• The Cinque Terre are charming seaside towns on the Ligurian coast.
• Pompeii and Herculaneum are the ruins of ancient cities destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.
• Sardinia - stunning beaches and seascapes.

Attractions

Italy has so many attractions that no other country in the world has. There are 53 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on its territory. Only listing the main attractions will take several pages. Therefore, only symbolic sights are indicated here.

A grandiose antique amphitheater and probably the most famous attraction in Italy. Located in Rome. It was built in just 8 years. The construction was started by Emperor Vespasian and finished by Titus.

The Colosseum is made in the form of a giant ellipse. This is the largest amphitheater of antiquity, striking in its size - the outer axis is 524 meters long, the area is 85 x 53 meters, and the height is from 48 to 50 meters. This is one of the most amazing and huge structures Ancient Rome.

One of the greatest domed structures in the world. It was built between 25-27 AD. consul Mark Vipsanius Agrippa and rebuilt in 126 after a fire during the reign of Hadrian. Pantheon means "temple of all gods". This is one of the best preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

The heart of the Roman Empire, the main political and social center of ancient Rome. It is a rectangular square surrounded by the remains of ancient buildings and temples. The Roman Forum is located in the valley between the Capitoline and Palatine hills in the center of the capital of Italy.

The Vatican is the heart of the Catholic world, a mini-state in the center of Rome. Here is the largest Christian church in the world. And the Vatican Museums display great treasures of art.

Leaning Tower of Pisa - the famous leaning tower, main symbol Pisa. It was conceived as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built for almost two centuries from the 12th century. The height of the tower is more than 50 meters, and the deviation from the axis is at least 4%.

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main attraction and one of the most recognizable symbols of Florence. A beautiful and imposing cathedral with pink, white and green marble decoration in the Gothic style and located in the historic center on Piazza Duomo. Santa Maria del Fiore was built on the site where once stood the ancient cathedral of the capital of Tuscany - Santa Reparata, the remains of which are visible in the crypt.

Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente is a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the square of the same name. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful Gothic church. The Duomo was built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof is topped with 135 spiers and the façade is adorned with 2,245 marble statues.

Amalfi is a stunning stretch of coast south of Naples with picturesque towns that climb steep cliffs.

Venice - city amazing beauty which is an attraction in itself. More than 20 million tourists come here to see the charming canals, graceful architecture and bridges, ride gondolas, walk along San Marco, see the Rialto Bridge, buy glassware on the island of Murano and photograph the colorful houses of Burano. The historic center of Venice is built on 118 islands in the Venetian lagoon.

Pompeii - legendary ancient city, destroyed during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD at the height of its power. Despite the lava flows and tons of ash that buried the city and its inhabitants, it has been preserved in a fantastic state.

Accommodation

AT major cities and popular tourist areas, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from world-class hotels to family hotels and apartments. One caveat - there are few hostels in Italy. In Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, Apulia and Emilia Romagna, agritourism is becoming more and more popular. In Italy, you can find many charming hotels with two stars or less.

The cost of living depends on the popularity of the region, place and season. Most high prices for hotels from May to August. The lowest are in winter. In general, prices for hotels and apartments, compared to the rest of Europe, in Italy are not the highest. Most of the money for living will be needed in Milan, Venice, around Lakes Garda and Como. Although there you can find interesting and cheap options.

Kitchen

Italian cuisine is perhaps the most delicious and varied in Europe. At the same time, the cuisine remains purely regional. Believe me, Italian cuisine is not only pasta and pizza. These are a huge number of dishes and ingredients that can satisfy any gourmet.

Traditional Italian dishes and products:

• Pizza is one of the most popular Italian dishes that has spread widely around the world. Each region has its own traditions of its preparation. How pizza is prepared in Italy - it is not cooked anywhere else.
• Risotto - rice with meat, vegetables and seafood.
• Polenta - corn grits with meat.
• Pasta (spaghetti, pasta) with sauces and meat.
• Lasagna.
• Tortellini - Italian dumplings with cheese and meat
• Gelato is ice cream.
• Panini sandwiches.
• Cheese. Some types of cheese can only be produced in a specific region. More than 800 types of cheese are produced in Italy.
• Wine.
• Olive oil.
• Sausage and ham - more than 400 types.

Wine is the main drink in Italy. Grapes are grown in almost every province, except for the highlands. Each region has strong winemaking traditions.

The Italians are the descendants of the wise men, politicians and military leaders of antiquity, and yet the Eternal City - - and today remains young, full of energy and life. A traveler who has visited the Apennine Peninsula for the first time should start his acquaintance with this country from its capital, because not only the ancient heritage and modern sights are located here - right in the center of Rome is the dwarf state of the Vatican.

Catholics from all over the world come to Italy to see the head of their denomination - the Pope, the vicar of God on earth. travel companies offer pilgrimage tours to this country, which is directly related to the formation of early Christianity. In Loreto, seekers of spiritual enlightenment are invited to visit the House of the Virgin, brought from Nazareth, in Bari - to attend the liturgy in the Basilica of St. Nicholas, in Amalfi, according to legend, the relics of St. Andrew the First-Called himself are kept. Great amount Christian shrines are located in Rome, Florence, Padua, Venice.

Italians know a lot about good wine and hearty healthy food. Gastronomic tours to Italy offer tourists to attend cooking classes in Tuscany and Liguria, get acquainted with local cuisine and wines in Lazio, Piedmont, Veneto, Trentino, participate in tastings in Sardinia, Lombardy, Umbria. Lovers of the classics will find it in abundance in Pisa, romantics tend to Venice and Juliet's homeland - Verona, flirtatious fashionistas gather in the world capital of haute couture - Milan.

The peninsula is surrounded on three sides warm seas, no wonder that Italy is considered the Mecca of a beach holiday. The main resorts are located on the islands: Sicily, Sardinia, Capri, Ischia and Elba. Mostly young people gather in Rimini to "hang out" at the beach disco all night long, Abruzzo is ideal for eco-tourists who prefer silence, peace and complete fusion with nature, brave adventurers seek Puglia, and exotic lovers come to Calabria.

Ski resorts in Italy are no less popular than beaches: you can try yourself as a skier or bobsledder in Bormio, Cervinia, Sestriere, Val di Sole, Passo Tonale. Children are crazy about theme parks located in the Emilia Romagna region in the resorts of Milano Marittima, Riccione, Cesenatico. Spa lovers choose the small town of Fiuggi and the resort of Montecatini, not far from Tuscany. "Lone wolves" also have something to see in the homeland of Celentano, Boccaccio and Fellini: Pesareo, Ravenna, San Marino - these and other cities have much to offer even the most sophisticated traveler.