Italy — map and facts

Italy is a southern European country famous for its art, history, food and Mediterranean coastline. Its capital is Rome, and the country covers about 301,000 square kilometres with a population of roughly 59 million. Italy uses the euro as its currency.

About Italy

Italy is a republic shaped by thousands of years of history, from ancient Rome to the Renaissance. It is instantly recognisable by its boot-shaped peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea. The country is a founding member of the European Union and a major cultural and economic power. Strong regional identities give its cities and provinces distinct character.

Geography and landscape

Italy borders France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia in the north, and surrounds the small states of San Marino and Vatican City. The Alps form its northern boundary, while the Apennine mountains run down the length of the peninsula. The country includes the large islands of Sicily and Sardinia and has extensive Mediterranean coastlines. The climate is largely Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, though the Alpine north is cooler. Italy is also home to active volcanoes, including Vesuvius and Etna.

History

Italy was the centre of the Roman Empire, which shaped law, language and culture across Europe for centuries. After Rome's fall, the peninsula fragmented into competing city-states and kingdoms, several of which led the Renaissance from the fourteenth century onward. Italy was unified into a single kingdom in 1861 after a long independence movement. In the twentieth century it experienced the Fascist dictatorship of Benito Mussolini and fought in both World Wars. After 1945 Italy became a republic and a founding member of what became the European Union. It rebuilt into one of the world's largest industrial economies.

Economy and currency

Italy has a large, advanced economy with strengths in manufacturing, fashion, design, machinery, food and tourism. It is known worldwide for luxury brands and high-quality craftsmanship. The currency is the euro, which replaced the Italian lira in 2002. Northern Italy, around Milan and Turin, is the country's main industrial region.

Culture and language

The official language is Italian, which evolved from Latin and varies in regional dialects. Italy has produced some of the most influential art, architecture and music in history, from Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci to opera. Its cuisine, including pasta, pizza and regional specialities, is enjoyed around the world. The country holds the largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any nation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Italy? The capital of Italy is Rome, located in the central part of the country. It is the largest city and contains the independent enclave of Vatican City.

What currency is used in Italy? Italy uses the euro. It replaced the Italian lira in 2002, when euro notes and coins entered circulation.

Which islands belong to Italy? Italy includes the two large Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia, along with many smaller islands. Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.