Italy

• Capital and largest city: Rome
• Official languages: Italiana
• Total area: 301,230 km2
• Currency: Euro (€) (EUR)

Italy, officially known as the Italian Republic, is a country located in southern Europe. Italy is situated on the Italian Peninsula, which extends into the Mediterranean Sea. It shares land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, including the rugged Alps in the north, rolling hills in central regions, and a long coastline with beautiful beaches. Italy has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was the birthplace of the Roman Empire, which played a significant role in shaping Western civilization. Italy has been home to numerous influential city-states and kingdoms throughout history and was unified as a modern nation in 1861.

Italy is home to many world-famous cities and landmarks. Rome, the capital city, is known for its ancient ruins, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Florence is renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture, while Venice is famous for its canals and romantic atmosphere. Other notable cities include Milan, Naples, and Turin. Landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Amalfi Coast, and the Vatican City attract millions of visitors each year. Italy is predominantly a Roman Catholic country, with the Vatican City, the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Catholic Church, located within Rome.

Italian culture is renowned worldwide for its contributions to art, architecture, music, literature, and cuisine. Italy has produced many influential artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Dante Alighieri. Italian cuisine, with its diverse regional dishes and renowned ingredients like pasta, pizza, and gelato, is celebrated globally.