Population

Over 65 percent of the population of Italy is between 15 and 64 years of age. As of 2014, the country had an almost even population growth rate. However, in the past decade it has experienced a slight increase in the overall birth rate. Life expectancy at birth is an estimated 84 years for women and 79 years for men.

There has been significant internal migration in Italy over the past half century from rural to urban areas. Rome, with an estimated population of over 2.4 million, is the country's largest city. Approximately one-third of the Italian population lives south of Rome, a predominantly rural region. The larger proportion occupies the more urbanized northern region of the country. Population density is 200.5 people per square kilometer (519 per square mile), making Italy one of the most densely populated countries in Europe.

Ethnically, the Italian population is largely homogenous, but culturally, it is diverse. Exceptions to this general picture include small minority groups that inhabit border areas as well as immigrants from developing countries. Only about 100,000 of Europe's largest minority group, the Roma, or Gypsies, live in Italy.

Principal Cities by Population (2012):

Languages

Italian is a Romance language spoken by the vast majority of the population of Italy, though often not solely. Modern Italian derives from the dialect of Tuscany, particularly as it evolved in the city of Florence in medieval times. Regional dialects became less common following the advent of uniform education standards and improved communication between disparate regions of the country. However, some dialects are still spoken alongside Italian, some by only a handful of people. A few larger groups, such as Fruilian and Napoletano, continue to maintain their unique dialect.

Minority languages or dialects not related to Italian include Occitan, spoken in the Piedmont region; Slovenian, spoken in areas bordering Slovenia; Tosca, an Albanian dialect spoken in the southeast; French in the Valle d'Aosta; German in the region of Trentino Alto Adige; Greek in the southern provinces of Lecce and Reggio Calabria; and Sardinian, spoken on the island of Sardinia.

Native People & Ethnic Groups

The Italian peninsula has been home to a pageant of peoples dating back to antiquity. It is from these that the common Italian stock derives. Following unification in 1861, a national identity began to be forged, though regional identities still remain important to this day. Historically, it has been economic disparities rather than ethnic differences which have challenged the Italian identity: the richer, urbanized north versus the less developed south.

Religions

Italy is steeped in the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church, and 98 percent of the population considers itself Roman Catholic. It is no longer the official state religion, however, and the percentage of practicing Catholics in the country continues to decrease. Religious minorities include Jews and Protestants. Over the last several decades, the Muslim population has grown through immigration.

Climate

Italy's average annual temperature falls between 11° and 19° Celsius (52° to 66° Fahrenheit). A Mediterranean climate prevails throughout much of the peninsula, with sea breezes moderating both summer and winter temperatures. The south, including the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, has a much hotter and drier climate. Rainfall, which is heaviest during the winter and spring, is much lower in the southern regions than in the central and northern regions.

In the north, away from the seas, summers and winters are cooler, the climate being more continental. In the mountains of the far north, the summers are cool and the winters are freezing, with heavy snowfall.

Climate is adversely affecting culture in one particularly pressing case: that of the northeastern city of Venezia (Venice), which was built on a lagoon and encompasses numerous canals. The city is prone to seasonal flooding from high tides. The higher levels and increasing salinity of the water have damaged many of its buildings, causing concern about whether the city can be preserved. An ambitious project is currently being undertaken to put movable dams in the lagoon. These dams will be submerged unless they are needed to prevent high tides from flooding the city.

Topography

Italy is composed of the mainland, over half of which is the long, narrow boot-shaped peninsula, and several islands. Sardinia and Sicily are the largest of these. The Adriatic Sea is to the east of the peninsula, the Ionian Sea is to the south, and the Tyrrhenian Sea is to the west, giving Italy 7,600 kilometers (4,631 miles) of coastline. Major indentations along the coast include the Gulf of Taranto and the Gulf of Salerno. The terrain is generally hilly and mountainous except on coastal lowlands and the Plain of Lombardy in the north.

There are two major mountain ranges in Italy: the Alps, which dominate the northern portion of the country, and the Appenines, which rise along the peninsula in several ridges. The approach to Monte Bianco is the highest point in Italy. The mountain's summit, at 4,810 meters (15,782 feet) lies in France. Monte Corno is the highest peak of the Appenines at 2,912 meters (9,554 feet).

There are several active volcanoes in Italy. Mount Vesuvius, towering over the Bay of Naples, is historically the most famous. The largest and most active, Mount Etna, is found on the island of Sicily. It rises approximately 3,323 meters (10,902 feet), but its elevation is altered by frequent volcanic activity.

The Po and the Adige are Italy's two most significant rivers. The Po, the longest, flows 652 kilometers (405 miles) and feeds the Plain of Lombardy. Like the Adige, it flows into the Adriatic Sea. Other noteworthy rivers are the Tevere (Tiber), which runs through Rome, and the Arno, which flows through Firenze (Florence). The largest lakes are Garda, Como, Maggiore and Lugano, all in northern Italy.

Plants & Animals

Italy is home to about 90 species of animals, 14 of them threatened. The Mediterranean Monk Seal is listed as critically endangered, and the brown bear is on the verge of extinction. Common mountain animals include the wolf, boar, and fox. Small scorpions and several types of viper are the only poisonous animals.

With 84 percent of the land listed as being highly disturbed by human activity, it is not surprising that Italy has fewer animal species than other European countries. Marine animals include a wide variety of fish as well as shrimp, octopus, and mussels.

In the mountains, forests of oak, chestnut, and pine trees are prevalent. The lower lands are dominated by Mediterranean shrubs and trees, olive, citrus and other fruit-bearing trees among them.

Greetings

Italians often judge others by first impressions, so proper etiquette when meeting for the first time is important in Italian culture. Thus, “Fare la bella figura” is a motto that figures prominently, but quietly, in Italian life. While difficult to translate, its essential meaning is “to make a good impression.” This includes the capacity to make something pleasing from even the simplest of resources. The motto is particularly evidenced in Italian fashion and cuisine.

One customary greeting is a handshake (not too firm), often used when meeting strangers or in business settings. Friends or acquaintances commonly greet with two light kisses, first on the right cheek and then the left. Upon meeting someone for the first time, it is polite to say “Piacere,” which means “Pleased to meet you.” When departing, the greeting kiss would be repeated. This is sometimes accompanied by a casual saying, such as “Ciao,” “a presto,” “a domani,” or “arrivederci.” The latter is used to say farewell in more formal situations, while “Ciao” is a greeting that can be given either in meeting or departing, but is only spoken to a friend or acquaintance.

Gestures & Etiquette

Gesturing with the hands while speaking is common in everyday communication among Italians. Italians offer supporting emphasis to words and thoughts through gestures and give visual impact to expressions of thought. In the proper context, many gestures need no translation. However, the complexities in meaning and context of Italian gestures reveal intricate and important layers of the Italian culture. These can be as compelling as the verbal language itself. In fact, many books have been written on the subject.

When entering a shop, it is polite to greet the salesperson with “Buon giorno” in the morning or “Buona sera” in the later afternoon and evening. These greetings are friendly, and the shopkeeper will appreciate the manners of the greeter. When paying, the money is often placed on a surface or in a dish, and the change is also placed there.

When visiting a basilica, duomo, or other religious site, proper dress is important. Short skirts and shorts are usually frowned upon, and women should cover up exposed arms, back, chests, and shoulders. Some sites will prohibit entrance to those not considered properly clothed, while others may provide cover-ups.

Eating/Meals

Many Italians consider themselves gourmets, and great care is taken in the preparation, consumption, and discussion of food. In addition, both professional Italian cooks and everyday people pride themselves on using the freshest and ripest ingredients.

For breakfast, called colazione, Italians most commonly eat bread with butter and jam, or a light pastry. This is accompanied by a café acute; latte, which is warm milk mixed with espresso. Often the beverage is served in a small bowl, and is sipped from the rim of the bowl. Cappuccino, a drink of espresso with hot milk topped with a layer of foamed steamed milk might also be taken in the morning, though rarely after 10:30 a.m.

Lunch, called pranzo, is usually served around 1:00 p.m. It is the largest and most important meal of the day. It typically consists of three courses: a pasta or rice dish, or soup; a meat or fish dish accompanied by a vegetable; and a third course consisting of fruit or dessert served with coffee. Also, many restaurants offer antipasti, an appetizer or first dish that offers small portions of salami, cooked vegetables, olives, and raw ham, or ham treated with salt and cured.

As recently as the 1980s, it was often customary in the warmer parts of Europe for businesses to shut down in the early afternoon so that the entire family could gather for the meal. In smaller towns, shops and offices often close, giving the impression that the city is asleep until mid-afternoon. The impact of technology and globalization is such that businesses in many larger cities no longer adhere to this custom; however, it is still very common throughout Italy.

Dinner, called cena, is usually eaten at 8:00 pm or later. In fact, many restaurants don't open until later in the evening. The same type of food served at lunch is also served in the evening, but it is usually lighter and does not include pasta. Soup is common.

There are several types of restaurants in Italy. A ristorante is more elaborate, with seating at one's own table, and waitstaff service. A trattoria or osteria is more informal, and is more like eating at home. It is not uncommon for osteria diners to sit at long tables with benches, although individual tables are also common.

Throughout Rome and the country's other urban areas, Western foods and restaurants serving foreign foods are available.

Visiting

Part of “la bella figura” or a good impression, of visiting in Italy is the “passeggiata,” which means “the stroll.” This custom follows lunch and precedes dinner, and allows Italians to be social as they speak and visit with people they know, often in formal attire. During the long summer hours, this custom might be repeated after dinner with a short stop for gelato, which is Italian ice cream.

In Italy, hosts often invite guests to tour their home with them, room by room. Houseguests in particular are often welcomed in this manner. When invited to share a meal, it is customary to bring a gift, such as a dessert, chocolates, or wine. Certain flowers, however, should not be brought as gifts. For example, large yellow or white chrysanthemums are associated with decorations found in cemeteries. In addition, red flowers have negative connotations. Italians also refrain from using the color purple or black, especially as a gift wrap, as they are symbols of mourning and bad luck.

If invited to a meal in an Italian home, it is usually customary to wear stylish clothes. Even if the mood is informal, women should wear a dress, skirt, or tailored outfit, and men should wear a jacket. Punctuality is not mandatory, and arriving 15 minutes late is acceptable. Keeping your hands in your lap at a meal is considered bad manners. It is considered polite to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Family

Family values are considered the backbone of Italian society, and most Italian families are closely tied together emotionally and financially. Some Italian families live together in one house, and in others the extended family might share a home. The elderly are treated with respect, and often live with their children. In this relationship, the grandparents often care for the grandchildren when the parents are working. In return, the children take care of parents after they retire. Most notably, the mother is the center of the family.

In many towns and villages, Sundays are considered family days. The family eats together and then spends the day together taking walks or just visiting one another. In the smaller towns, most shops and businesses are closed on Sunday, and this time is devoted to the family.

Housing

Homes in Italy are commonly built of stone, brick, or concrete. In the mountainous regions of the north, some houses, called chalets, are built with wood. Inside homes, it is common to see tiles cover the floors, with wooden floors being the exception. Few homes have screens on windows. Instead of screens for doors, Italians use glass or plastic “curtains” which cover the doors during the day. These curtains are actually tiny beads strung on hanging threads, which are easily moved when entering or exiting. The glass or plastic beads move slightly in the breeze, thus discouraging insects from entering.

Thousands of residential homes in Italy were destroyed during World War II. Gradually, more modern homes and apartment buildings replaced the original stone buildings. As such, ancient buildings sometimes stand next to more contemporary structures. In addition, many Italians have restored old stone farmhouses and use them as homes or villas. Laws require these homes to be constructed with the integrity of the original in mind.

Food

Italian food varies from region to region. Almost every province typically includes pasta, risotto (a creamy rice dish), and olive oil as main ingredients. In the northwest regions near France, the food is influenced by French cuisine. In the areas bordering Austria, chefs are fond of heavier soups and smoked meats. In the northern and central part of Italy, olive groves are prolific and cuisine often centers on olive oil and olives. In addition, because Italy has an extensive coastline, seafood is readily available. In the more forested regions such as Abruzzo and Umbria, cinghiale (wild boar) is hunted and made into sausages. The northern and central parts of Italy also are known for a delicacy known as truffles, which are red or black nuggets of funghi that sell for as high as $500 (USD) a pound. Truffles are commonly made into sauces and sometimes served over pasta. As one travels south through Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, and on to the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, sauces become more dominated by tomatoes and spicier chili peppers, and flavors are influenced by the spices of Greece and the southern Mediterranean. Where southern Italy meets the coast, seafood is highlighted.

Italy is also renowned for its cheeses, of which there as many as 450 types. Caprese salad is a popular dish made with slices of fresh mozzarella (a soft white cheese made from the milk of cows or buffalo), fresh leaves of basil, and slices of ripe red tomatoes, all drizzled with virgin olive oil. Tuscany is known for its pecorino cheese (made from sheep's milk), which can be eaten alone or with crackers, or spread with honey and freshly ground pepper. Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (Parmesan) is made in the Parma region of Emilia-Romagna. Parmigiano is a hard, strong cheese, which Italians typically use as a garnish in pasta or soups. Ricotta, which likely originated in Sicily, can be creamy, soft and textured, a consistency smoother than cottage cheese, or firm and sliceable. Technically, it isn't a cheese at all, but a curd, make from whey proteins in cow or sheep milk. It is a staple in Italian cooking.

Two well-known Italian food products are prosciutto and bruschetta. Prosciutto is a type of ham rubbed with salt and cured (by either drying or smoking) for anywhere from two months to two years. Like Parmigiano cheese, it is another culinary star from the region of Parma. It is typically eaten raw alone or with melon, but can also be lightly cooked in soups or pastas, or served in antipasto. Bruschetta, an appetizer served in all parts of Italy, is made from grilled or toasted bread covered with tomatoes, beans, cheese, or proscuiutto. An easy way to prepare bruschetta is to toast small round slices of bread drizzled with olive oil. A mixture of chopped basil and chopped tomatoes is then spread on top.

Cappuccino is a signature Italian coffee beverage consisting of espresso and hot milk, topped with a layer of steamed and foamed milk. In Italy, one customarily drinks cappuccino only in the morning. The drink takes its name from the brown hooded habit worn by the Capuchin Franciscan friars, which originated in medieval Italy. The Italian word for “hood” is “cappuccio.” Cappuccino literally means “little hood.”

Life's Milestones

Weddings are a particularly important part of Italian culture. They incorporate family and cultural traditions that date back to ancient Roman customs. The bride carries a bouquet to represent fidelity and fertility. The bride's veil is worn to protect her from evil spirits, and the ring symbolizes the marriage bond. After the marriage, the groom carries his bride over the threshold, just as ancient Romans did with the Sabine women they kidnapped for marriage. In fact, the kidnapping of Sabine woman, who are an Italic tribe from ancient Italy, was a popular theme in the history of Italian art, particularly during the Renaissance period.

In addition, before the wedding the couple is honored with several parties to celebrate the wedding. On the night before the wedding, the bride wears green, which encourages abundance and wealth for their future. Because most of Italian citizens are Roman Catholic, many of their other traditions and customs are religious. Funerals in Italy are also well-attended affairs that honor the death of a loved one. Cemeteries are treated more like parks, and family members visit to tend the graves and have picnics nearby.

Art

Perhaps no other artists and architects have wielded more historical influence than those from Italy. Italian art dates back to the Etruscans, an ancient civilization (900–100 BCE) that predated the Roman Empire in Italy. They espoused Greek influences and an appreciation of art and sculpture. The impact of their artistic skills extended to the beginning of Roman rule.

By 1000 CE, art and architecture had become a prominent part of Italian society. Elaborate public buildings were erected, and tower-fortresses were characteristic of the wealthiest and most influential cities. By the early 15th century the Italian Renaissance was beginning to take root. During the next two centuries, affluent city-states such as Florence, considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, and Sienna competed with each other to create the most elaborate sculptures, paintings, cathedrals, and other works. This period of cultural rebirth and achievement continues to influence modern art.

During this period, wealthy families and church officials strove to communicate their prosperity and power through art. They commissioned artists and architects to create decorative buildings. This patronage, or financial support, gave rise to a multitude of artists, sculptors, and architects – a veritable who's who of masters in the art world. Michelangelo Buonarotti (1475–1564), a triple power as painter, sculptor, and architect painted the Sistine Chapel in Rome and sculpted the statue David. Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519) was his contemporary and sometimes rival, as sculptor, inventor, and painter, most notably of The Last Supper and La Giaconda (also known as the Mona Lisa). Filippo Brunelleschi (1377–1446) was commissioned to design an innovative dome atop the major cathedral in Florence. Donatello (1386–1466) was considered the greatest sculptor of the Renaissance, with many of his masterpieces on display in Florence. Other artists such as Raphael (1483–1520), Sandro Botticelli (c. 1445–1510), Titian (c. 1488–1576), and Tintoretto (1518–1584) were also prominent.

Another of Italy's great art forms is fashion. The history of Italian fashion dates back to the Middle Ages and the Italian Renaissance. Even though political instability made it difficult to export Italian goods during these periods, Italy became well known for its fashions. For example, leather goods were known for their high quality and modern style. Fashionable eyeglasses were crafted in the 14th century, and the 15th century saw the design and production of more complicated and ornate textiles.

Years of foreign occupation, division and war cloaked this rich and prolific creative heritage through the end of World War II. However, after World War II, Italy's art scene reawakened, and modern sculptors, architects, artists and fashion designers have found new success. Government sponsorship of the restoration and exhibition of classical and ancient art has helped conservation efforts, but much still needs to be done. There is less state funding for modern art. Private galleries and foundations are thus left to sponsor exhibitions and encourage innovation.

During the 20eth century, artists and designers created new fashion designs based on the traditions and artistry in the preceding 800 years. At the beginning of the century, leather goods and fashion accessories were exported throughout the world. Italian-made goods began to be synonymous with the highest quality. In 1920, a renowned fabric company in Venice called Fortuny began exporting rich fabrics that married the artistry of the past with modern styles.

In the middle of the 20th century, American buyers sent representatives to the fashion centers in Milan, Florence, and Rome to find products for high-end, or luxury, stores. Finally, the Italians began their own marketing program and established labels and iconic design houses such as Armani, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Ferré; Prada, Gucci, Trussardi, and Versace. These design houses and their fashions had their roots in the rich cultural heritage of the Italian Renaissance, and are synonymous with quality and innovation.

Architecture

Architecture is at the forefront of Italy's rich and historic artistic heritage, ranging from the country's Roman era in ancient times, to the development of architectural order and the use of classical ornamentation during the Renaissance, as well as the dynamic style of the Baroque movement, which emerged in Italy in the 1600s.

Much of Italian architecture has been influenced by classical antiquity. Cornerstones of Italy's architectural heritage include the Coliseum, considered a classical example of Roman architecture. This oval-shaped ancient amphitheater is known for its range of styles in its tiered columns, including both the Doric and Ionic orders of classical architecture. (The Romans absorbed much of the ancient Greek style of architecture). Another cornerstone of Roman classical architecture is the Roman Forum, characterized by Corinthian columns and use of mosaics. As evidenced by these two structures, Roman architecture, which is also characterized by the use of arches, is known particularly for its public structures.

Several architectural movements would follow, from early Byzantine architecture, characterized by the use of mosaics and iconic elements, to Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the latter prominently highlighted by the Milan Cathedral. Considered the fourth-largest church in the world, and needing five centuries to complete, the Milan Cathedral is characterized by its pinnacled roofline, Gothic-inspired façade, and the five naves (church's central area) of its interior.

Structures that typify the highest expressions of the Renaissance period include Brunelleschi's Dome in Florence, a masonry dome that dominates Florence's skyline; the Church of San Lorenzo, the arches and columns of which harken back to Rome's classical years; and the Medici-Riccardi Palace, the design of which also used Roman principles of architecture.

In general, the architecture of the Renaissance era is characterized by geometric proportions and harmonious elements and forms, and punctuated by arches, columns, and domes, among other architectural elements.

The Italian Baroque period brought with it an invigoration of the classical style, highlighted by the almost theatrical and lavish Baroque churches of Rome, with elements such as ceiling frescoes and sculptural interiors, and the innovative use of light and color. Many other architectural styles would follow, from neoclassical, again using Greek and Roman themes, to modern styles such as art nouveau (an organic, curvilinear style) and fascist architecture, an overpowering style that emerged in the 1920s. Present-day architecture in Italy is largely defined by the global work of Renzo Piano (1937–), an award-winning architect whose body of international work includes museums, national art centers, skyscrapers, and airports, buildings that purportedly embody a vision of the future while looking back towards the past.

Drama

The first important film genre in Italian cinema was the historical film. Prior to and during World War II, propaganda films became popular. During the fascist regime of Benito Mussolini, a town was even commissioned, named Cinecittà in which everything was built exclusively around filmmaking. After the end of World War II, Italy emerged from the authoritarian rule of Mussolini and into a period of more stylized cinema.

Industrial expansion and economic prosperity pushed the country forward, and the phrase “la dolce vita,” which means “the sweet life,” has become synonymous with Italy and its culture. For example, Italian filmmakers such as Roberto Rossellini (1906–1977) began making important films that exposed realistic life situations in postwar Italy. This style became known as Italian neorealism. Federico Fellini, who made some of the most respected post-war films, including La Dolce Vita (1960) and 8½ (1963), and Michelangelo Antonioni became masters in Italian cinema in the 1950s and 1960s, and students of filmmaking continue to study their techniques. Other directors of international repute include Vittorio de Sica (1901–1974), Pier Palo Pasolini (1922–1975), and Lina Wertmuller (1926–).

Sergio Leone (1929–1989), another Italian filmmaker, also became synonymous with Italian cinema, as did his popular genre of westerns dubbed “spaghetti westerns.” Incorporating quality cinematography on a smaller budget, the films became widely popular around the world. During the late decades of the twentieth century, however, Italian cinema declined, and was characterized as having little artistic value. Though comedies remained the popular genre, art films were becoming few and far between in the mainstream.

Italian cinema has since undergone a revival heading into the 21st century. Acclaimed directors include Giuseppe Tornatore (1956–), who won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1989 for Nuovo Cinema Paradiso (1988), Gabriele Salvatores (1950–), who won the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar in 1991 for Mediterraneo, and actor and director Roberto Benigni (1952–), who also won the Oscar for best foreign language film for 1997's Life is Beautiful. Benigni also won the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in the film.

Music

Like its art and fashion, Italy's music is derived from its cultural heritage. Just as dialects were sprinkled all over the country, so were different kinds of music. In Naples, the “canzone napoletana” (“Neapolitan songs”) developed. Il Solo Mio is one of the more popular Neapolitan songs associated with this genre. In addition, bagpipes were popular in southern Italy in the more rural areas. In the northern regions, Celtic music was very influential.

Historically, Italian music has its origins in the Catholic Church, which influenced many musicians. In the fourth century, religious chants were sung a cappella (without accompaniment) to accompany formal worship. These chants are still popular and are sold commercially.

In the 17th century, Italians began staging operatic performances of Greek plays. They believed that the Greeks sang their plays instead of speaking, so all the dialogue was sung. Venice became the city where most opera was performed, but later Milan took over the opera scene. Opera writers like Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, Donizetti, and Bellini were the most famous, and their operas are still performed today. The famed opera house in Milan, La Scala (“the steps”), is one of the country's premier opera houses. Italian audiences there are known for their high level of appreciation, and have been known to boo performers off the stage.

Instrumental and classical music also has a rich heritage in Italy. Composers such as Antonio Vivaldi, Donizetti, and Verdi crafted sacred music, concertos and orchestral music. “The Four Seasons” by Vivaldi is one of the most popular and well-known concertos in the world. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Italy's acclaimed musical heritage has been enriched by the careers of operatic tenors Enrico Caruso (1873–1921) and Luciano Pavarotti (1935–2007), as well as legendary film composer Ennio Morricone (1928–), considered one of the most acclaimed and influential film score composers of the modern era, and who received an Academy Honorary Award in 2007 for his extensive body of work.

Dance

The saltarello is a popular traditional dance of Northern Italy, which dates back to the 13th century. The quintessential dance of Italy's southern regions is known as the tarantella, which is still performed. Theaters and opera houses throughout Italy continue to present dance performance. These include the Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma in Rome and the Teatro Verdi in Busseto. The Piccolo Teatro Arsenale in Venice holds a Contemporary Dance Festival each year. The festival features contemporary dance and performances from foreign dance companies.

Literature

Much of Italy's classical literature derives from the Roman period, when famous orators such as Cicero (106–43 BCE) wrote about politics and philosophy. He wrote about events that occurred during the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, including the reign of Julius Caesar. Virgil was a classical Roman poet influenced by Hellenistic, or Greek, culture. He lived from 50 to 19 BCE and wrote the Aeneid. This epic poem tells a mythical story in which Aeneas, a Trojan, founds the Roman Empire. Twelve centuries later, troubadours, or poet-musicians, travelled throughout Italy, performing their lyric poetry and songs for the wealthy.

During the 14th century, three great writers and poets emerged during the Renaissance. They, in turn, created a rich cultural revolution in literature. Dante Alighieri (c. 1265–1321) wrote the Divine Comedy between 1314 and 1321. This poem chronicled the spiritual progress of Italians since the fall of the Roman Empire. Francesco Petrarca (also known as Petrarch) perfected the sonnet in poems about love, patriotism, and religion. Giovanni Boccaccio (1313–1375) introduced the first short story form in The Decameron. These one hundred stories described life in the 14th century.

During the Renaissance, many dialects were spoken in Italy, with Latinthe the prominent language. Dante lived in Florence and spoke the Florentine dialect. This dialect would help formalize the modern Italian language. Other luminary Italian authors are Luigi Pirandello (1867–1936) and Italo Calvino (1923–1985). Major thinkers include Nicolo Machiavelli (1469–1527), whose treatise on statecraft, The Prince, is still widely discussed today, and 20th-century philosopher writers such as Antonio Gramsci (1891–1937) and Benedetto Croce (1866–1952).

Italian literature is further distinguished by the works of Carlo Collodi (1826–1890), who penned The Adventures of Pinocchio, a classic work of children's literature. Other internationally renowned Italian writers include Umberto Eco (1932–), author of The Name of the Rose (Il nome della rosa, 1980); dramatist Luigi Pirandello (1867–1936), who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1934; and poet Filippo Tommaso Marinetti (1876–1944), founder of the Futurist movement, which embraces technology. Italians have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature five times, most recently in 1997.

Arts & Entertainment

Contemporary and traditional Italian culture and art stand side by side. In a country rich with artistic treasures, the standards for quality are high and tastes are sophisticated.

Modern Italian filmmakers are especially known for the genres of drama and comedy. American films are also popular in Italy, but English subtitles are not. American films are dubbed with the voices of Italian actors. In addition, once an actor assumes an English or American actor's voice, he or she assumes that actor's roles in all subsequent films.

In the 21st century, the thriller detective story, or “giallo,” became immensely popular in Italy. Niccolo Ammaniti's I'm Not Scared (2001) is a story about a child who loses his innocence in the adult world of violence. This book was made into a movie in 2003 that enjoyed success in Italy and abroad. Daniele Bonati, Stefano Benni, and Aldo Busi are a few of Italy's prominent modern writers.

Music in Italy is also culturally important. Italians enjoy all types, including classical, jazz, folk, and pop. American musicians have influenced their Italian counterparts since the latter half of the 20th century, but Italian performers have their own distinctive styles. Pop music is celebrated at a popular festival in San Remo each year, and the Italian television station, RAI, boasts four orchestras. Orchestras all over the world seek violinists Uto Ughi and Salvatore Accardo as well as Maurizio Pollini, the world-renowned pianist. Composers Luciano Berio, Luigi Dallapiccola, and Luigi Nono are famous Italian classical composers. Guiseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini are two of the foremost composers, while the tenor Luciano Pavarotti had a long, successful career as a performer and recording artist.

The popularity of Italian pop stars rivals that of American and British performers. The melodic musician Luccio Battisti is one of the most popular, as is Adriano Celentano, who has sold over 70 million records and whose style ranges from melodic to rock to rap. In the 1950s, Italians developed their own styles of folk music. Fabrizio De André was one of the first singer-songwriters who wrote politically influenced songs like those of Bob Dylan. Rock singer Zucchero, Laura Pausini, Eros Ramazzotti, and Andrea Bocelli are some of the other Italian singers and musicians popular on the international stage.

In 1958, the Festival dei Due Mondi (“Festival of Two Worlds”) was established in Spoleto, Italy. Its founder, Gian Carlo Menotti, conceived an arts festival that would celebrate concerts, opera, dance, visual arts, drama, and science in the small town of Spoleto in Umbria. It has become one of the most important cultural events in Italy. Menotti partnered with American organizers in an attempt to showcase both European and American art, side by side, and a sister show was organized in Charleston, South Carolina. The Italian festival is held in June and July, and the American festival is celebrated in May and June. Several of Italy's other major festivals take place in the city of Venice. These include Carnival, the Venice Film Festival, and the Venice Biennale, which has long attracted artists of the highest caliber in every field.

Football (soccer) is by far the most popular sport in Italy. The Italian Football Federation oversees a variety of national tournaments and national football leagues. Leagues include the Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A and B, the Lega Italiana Calcio Professionistico, and the Lega Nazionale Dilettanti. Some of the most popular clubs in the country include Juventus, Internazionale, Milan, Genoa, and Torino. Football Club Internazionale Milano has been competing professionally since 1908. Italy played host to the 2006 FIFA World Cup. The Italian national team, winner of four FIFA World Cups, is the second most successful team in tournament history. Other popular sports in Italy include cycling and basketball. Volleyball, cricket, and rugby are also played.

Cultural Sites & Landmarks

Rome, the capital of Italy, was the birthplace of the Roman Empire. According to legend, the city was founded by the two brothers, Remus and Romulus, in 753 BCE. The many ruins of the ancient sites where the inhabitants of the Roman Empire once lived and worked are famous landmarks, such as the Forum. At this site, people came to socialize or discuss politics in ancient Rome. Another famous Roman landmark is the Colosseum (or Coliseum), an amphitheater commissioned by Emperor Vespasian (9–79 CE) for the purpose of circus-like entertainment, including gladiator fights. Completed in 72 CE, the Colosseum was designed with archways, interior corridors and multiple exits to assist with the seating and movement of over 55,000 spectators.

Close to Rome, Hadrian's Villa is an excellent example of second century art and architecture. Hadrian, a Roman emperor, built a complex of buildings in the styles of Greek and Egyptian architecture. Near Hadrian's Villa is the Villa d'Este, a 16th century garden that serves as an example of Renaissance-era landscape architecture.

Two important landmarks are the preserved sites of Pompeii and Herculeum. In 79 CE, Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered these two seaside resort cities in ash. People were buried alive, and seventeen centuries later these cities were excavated. The ash preserved the buildings and bodies of some residents, and modern visitors can view glimpses everyday life two millennia ago.

Another important cultural site is San Gimignano, in the province of Tuscany. The town once boasted seventy-two towers, some as high as 50 meters (164 feet). During the Middle Ages, such towers signified power and wealth. Fourteen of these towers still stand.

Assisi, a small hill town in the region of Umbria, is the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis founded the Franciscan order of monks and is considered the patron saint of animals and nature. After the death of St. Francis, the Basilica of San Francesco was built to honor the saint. The basilica houses great works of medieval art by Pietro Lorenzetti, Simone Martini and Giotto. St. Francis is buried in the crypt below the basilica, and visitors travel from all over the world to sit and pray in the presence of his earthly remains.

Italian cities are themselves works of art, from the small village of Todi to the remarkable industrial city of Milan. Venice, for example, is a city surrounded by the sea and interconnected with famous canals. The Piazzo San Marco, Venice's main square, is a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike, complete with serenading musicians. In addition, Perugia in Umbria, a university town, contains passageways that serve as a reminder of life during Etruscan rule to the Renaissance eras.

Florence itself, once the capital of the Italian Renaissance, is rich in cultural sites and landmarks, including the Baptistry, the Gates of Paradise, and the Duomo. They are all spiritual monuments reminiscent of the art and architecture of medieval Florence.

Libraries & Museums

Florence also has some of the most renowned art museums in the world. The Uffizi Gallery is perhaps the most impressive in the country, with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. The National Museum of Rome, renowned for its archeological collection, is a series of different museums set out across the city, while other prominent museums in the country include Venice's Peggy Guggenheim Collection, devoted to modern art; the National Archeological Museum in Naples, known for both its Roman and Greek antiquities; as well as Rome's National Etruscan Museum, the Museum of the Roman Civilization, and the National Museum of Oriental Art.

Italy has two central libraries, the Italian National Central Library in Florence and the National Central Library in Rome, the latter of which contains over 7 million volumes of books.

Holidays

National holidays in Italy include the Anniversary of the Republic (June 2) and Liberation Day, celebrating the defeat of the German army in Italy (April 25). In addition to the standard religious holidays of the church calendar, numerous feast days are celebrated throughout the country in honor of saints associated with particular villages, towns or cities.

Youth Culture

Italian teens take pride in the way they dress, and keep track of the latest fashions and trends. Like teenagers all over the world, they are fond of casual dress, such as jeans and t-shirts. Trends vary from season to season, and Italian teens are often at the forefront. One recent fad consisted of couples writing their names on padlocks, attaching them to lampposts or other public places, and throwing the keys into public fountains or nearby rivers. This trend caught on after two romantic characters in a movie entitled Three Metres above the Sky had done the same thing.

About 97 percent of youth in Italy own a cell phone, and they are adept at using cell phone technology, such as texting. Although Internet use is pervasive, Italian teens are also reading books and newspapers in increasing numbers and surveys show that 78 percent read a newspaper at least once or twice a week. In addition, reportedly over 60 percent of young Italians read at least three fiction or nonfiction books a year.

Italian teens also tend to socialize in groups, and they often hang out and talk in small bars and cafes that commonly serve coffee, gelato, and soft drinks. Italian teens usually stay out later than American teens on weekends, and enjoy dancing in discos that remain open until the early hours of morning. Also, since operating smaller vehicles such as scooters or subcompact cars like the Smart Car do not require a license, these modes of transportation are popular among Italian youth.

Many young Italians live at home until they marry. Some 80 percent of Italian men aged 18 to 30 still live with their parents. Consequently, getting married and having children is often delayed until a career has been firmly established.

Transportation

Italy has a modern, extensive transportation system. International airports serve most major airlines, and railway system is efficient. In addition, the high-speed Eurostar train connects major cities, while local trains connect the smaller towns and rural areas. Local bus services are prevalent. The “autostrade,” or motorways similar to the interstate system in the United States, run through the major regions of Italy, but levy expensive tolls. Contrary to common belief, Italian autostrade do post speed limits (though they are generally a bit higher than those in the U.S.). They are also regularly patrolled and monitored. Automobile traffic in Italy travels on the right hand side of the road. Travel by train, bus and car is common. In the major cities, it is also common to see people navigating narrow streets by motorscooter.

In the northeastern Italian city of Venezia (Venice), all motorized vehicles and also bicycles are prohibited, and in fact, impractical. The island city is criss-crossed and surrounded by water – lagoons, bays, canals – and its streets and bridges are too narrow for motorized traffic. Venezia's residents, economy and culture are literally buoyed up by the barges, motorboats, water taxis, and gondolas that ply the waterways.

Transportation Infrastructure

There are 19,460 kilometers (12,092 miles) of railways in Italy, and roughly 484,688 kilometers (300,171 miles) of paved roads.

Media & Communications

Italian law allows freedom of speech, and the government and courts are responsible for upholding these rights. Two Italian newspapers, the Corriere della Sera and the La Stampa, are internationally known. The International Herald Tribune is the standard English newspaper in Italy. A government corporation runs RAI (Radiotelevisione Italiana), which broadcasts on radio and television. Italian media freely offers a broad spectrum of political opinions and viewpoints, although it should be noted that Italian politician and industry magnate Silvio Berluscone does maintain dominant financial control or outright ownership of several important private Italian media outlets.

Telephone service is available through multiple providers, and cell phone service is generally available, even in remote areas. In 2009, there were more than 30 million Internet users in Italy, representing just over half of the population. In 2012, there were 97.2 million cellular phones, averaging out to more than one cell phone for each citizen. High speed Internet and broadband access is available in most cities and towns.

Standard of Living

Italy ranked 26th on the 2014 United Nations Human Development Index, which measures quality of life and standard of living indicators.

Water Consumption

Drinking water is widely available in Italy and tap water is considered safe to drink. However, Italy faces significant challenges related to the age of its water infrastructure. A September 2010 study by the Italian research group Utilitatis estimated that over 60 billion EUR will be needed for the repair and modernization of the country's water systems. According to the study, up to 40 percent of the nation's available water supply is being lost by leaks. In addition, 30 percent of Italian territories remain without wastewater treatment facilities.

Education

Education in Italy is universal and compulsory for children between the ages of six and 14 years. Elementary school is divided into five levels. Students may then complete secondary school, during which time they prepare for university or receive technical training.

Some of the oldest European universities are found in Italy, such as the University of Bologna. The University of Rome has the most students, but there are large institutions spread throughout the country, offering programs in every field. Around two million students matriculate at this level.

The literacy rate among people in Italy, both male and female, was an estimate 99 percent in 2012. School enrollment rates are high throughout the country.

Women's Rights

Traditionally, Italian women were raised to be wives and mothers, and the patriarchs made major decisions and ensured the financial well-being of the family. Women in Italy did not secure the right to vote until 1946. Even though the roles have been slowly changing since the 20th century, many Italian males still feel the woman's role is mostly domestic, and women still do not enjoy the same salaries or positions as men. Italian women in the 21st century are more educated and hold jobs outside the home. For example, about 60 percent of university students are female.

According to Italian law, men and women share the same rights in marriage, property, and in matters of inheritance. Italian legislation protects women from abuse, and in recent years, there has been an increase in the reporting of psychological and physical abuse. Public awareness of the problem has resulted in more women receiving help. In the event of an attack, Italian law also shields female victims from publicity.

In 2003, the Italian government passed legislation to protect women in the workplace from sexual harassment. In addition, government offices have been established to protect women's rights. Women have also taken leadership roles in the government, most notably in the Ministry for Equal Opportunity. In addition, the office of the prime minister and the labor ministry both employ an equal opportunity commission that works to ensure that women's rights are upheld and discrimination is prevented in the workplace.

However, women remain underrepresented in government positions. As of 2014, less than a third of the seats in the two chambers of parliament were held by women. Women also serve in a few cabinet positions. In the business arena, women are also underrepresented in management positions and earn about 26 percent less than their male counterparts. In addition, more women are employed in northern Italy than in southern Italy. Organizations such as Arcidonna still push for women's rights in Italy by sponsoring initiatives, educating the public, training women for jobs, providing help and advice for entrepreneurs, and encouraging women to publish.

Health Care

Italy has a national health care system that treats the medical needs of the population for free or at low cost. It is the third largest health care system in Europe and is rated highly by international standards, though there is some regional disparity between north and south as regards the quality of the care.

Structure

Italy is a democratic republic and one of the founding members of the European Union. The executive branch of the government consists of a president, who can serve a single seven-year term, and a prime minister. Though some powers are vested in the president, it is the prime minister who has the responsibility for running the government. The prime minister is appointed by the president and approved by the legislature.

The legislature is bicameral. The Chamber of Deputies consists of 630 members serving five-year terms. The Senate of the Republic consists of 326 members, and they too are elected for five-year terms, with the exception of 11 senators, who are elected for life. Three-quarters of the members in each house are elected by direct vote; the others are assigned seats by proportional representation.

The highest judicial powers are divided between the Supreme Court of Cassation and a constitutional court, whose fifteen judges are solely responsible for interpreting the constitution. The president, the legislature, and the Supreme Court each appoint five of the judges.

Political Parties

Italy's numerous political parties cross the spectrum from right-wing to left-wing, and sometimes form alliances. Chief among the parties are Italia, Bene Comune (Italy, Common Good), Partito Democratico (Democratic Party), Casa delle Liberta (House of Liberty), Ulivo (Olive Tree), Alleanza Nazionale (National Alliance), Lega Nord (Northern League), Democrazia Cristiana (Christian Democrats), and Federazione dei Verdi (The Green Federation).

There is also a plethora of region political parties throughout Italy. For example, the Province of Trento boasts eight different regional political alliances. The autonomous region of Sardinia has seven political parties focused on issues related solely to that island.

Local Government

Local government is concentrated at the regional level. Each of the fifteen regions has a directly elected council and an executive. Italy's ninety-four provinces are presided over by appointed prefects. The commune is the form of local government below the provinces and is presided over by a directly elected council and an appointed mayor.

Judicial System

The Italian legal system is notoriously slow, complex, and fragmented. The country's laws are based on Roman law and French Napoleonic laws and include numerous laws that are centuries old, obscure and no longer enforced. Italy's administrative ties to the Europe Union ad another layer to an already complicated legal bureaucracy.

There are three types of courts in Italy; civil courts, administrative courts, and criminal courts. Each of these courts are further subdivided into courts overseen by either individual judges or panels of judges. Individual rights regarding legal representation are different than most Western countries. The majority of criminal proceedings in Italy and civil complaints against corporate or government entities tend to take place over a prolonged period. Widespread incidents of corruption and misuse of influence further impact judicial expediency.

Taxation

Italy's taxation system, like its judicial system, is complex. Taxes for Italians remain high compared to most Western countries, with some Italians contributing some 45 percent of their income to the government. The Italian tax system operates on three levels; local, regional and national.

Italian citizens pay taxes on their personal income, property, trash collection and bank accounts. Income tax rates vary from region to region. Italian employers and employees contribute are required to contribute to the country's social security system, are self-employed individuals. Italy also has a VAT (value-added tax) and inheritance tax.

In recent decades, the Italian government has made efforts to streamline and modernize its tax system. Nonetheless, the tax rates in Italy remain some of the highest in Europe and the rest of the world.

Foreign Policy

Since the height of the Roman Empire, Italy has had a history of democratic ideals. In 1861, the nation was ruled by King Victor Emmanuel II and a parliamentary government. In the 1920s, Benito Mussolini stripped many freedoms through his fascist dictatorship, and the country allied with Nazi Germany in World War II. Following the war, Italy joined the Atlantic Alliance for security purposes. Italy became a democratic republic and is still governed by judicial, executive, and legislative branches.

Economic recovery followed, and Italy became a charter member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Economic Community (EEC). Italy is also a long-standing member and supporter of the United Nations (UN). In 1999, it joined the Economic and Monetary Union and unified with other European countries in the use of the euro currency. At the same time, Italy employed a tight fiscal policy, and has enjoyed lower interest rates and lower inflation as a result. Italy also supports a European Security and Defence Policy (EDSP) and considers it a companion to the protection that NATO provides. Italy also believes that NATO should intervene when necessary in humanitarian circumstances, but only with the sanctioning of the UN.

Significant foreign trading partners with Italy include Germany, France, the U.S., Spain, and the United Kingdom (UK), particularly in regards to exports. Italy mainly imports from Germany, France, Netherlands, China, Spain, and Belgium.

Since the conclusion of World War II and the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, the Italian government has fostered a special relationship with the U.S. For example, Italy reinforced this partnership when it agreed to send troops to Afghanistan in 2001. This action, resulting in the taking of Italian hostages taken in Iraq, was criticized as taking attention away from important domestic issues, such as the cost of living and constitutional reforms.

Possibly as a result, Italian society and its political leaders have increasingly become more autonomous and less dependent on foreign influence. The Italian government continues to be pro-European, but is not shy of disagreeing or asserting its own stances. American influence has been waning for the past twenty years, with many Italians disagreeing with American policies. In particular, the U.S.-led conflict in Iraq has become increasingly unpopular in Italy. In 2008, Italy voted not to maintain 2,000 troops in Afghanistan, and denied the US rights to expand a military base near Vicenza, a city in northern Italy. However, in recent years, perhaps owing to Italy's unstable economy, the country has increasingly begun to take part in international peacekeeping efforts, including participating in a no-fly zone over Libya.

Human Rights Profile

International human rights law insists that states respect civil and political rights, and also promote an individual's economic, social and cultural rights. The United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) is recognized as the standard for international human rights. Its authors sought the counsel of the world's great thinkers, philosophers, and religious leaders, and were careful to create a document that reflects the core values shared by every world culture. (To read this document or view the articles relating to cultural human rights, visit: http://www.udhr.org/UDHR/default.htm.)

Italy is a parliamentary democracy, and its laws and efforts to protect essential human rights are in sync with international human rights laws. Italian law provides freedom for its citizens and respect for human rights. Italian legislation prohibits discrimination according to race, gender, ethnic background, or political opinion. Furthermore, Italian law stipulates that citizens have the right to gather and associate with whomever they please.

There is also some protection against discrimination for those with disabilities and language issues. However, in 2004, there were several instances of abuse of the law for discrimination against women and those with disabilities.

As a parliamentary democracy, Italy's system of government allows its citizens to change its government through free elections. It is against the law to bribe or pay any public official to do his or her job. When reports of such misconduct occur, the accused are required to stand trial.

The Italian government is also committed to providing an education for its youth. Italian children from the ages of seven to eighteen are given the right to attend school free of charge, and attendance is compulsory. Children under the age of 15 cannot work, and it is against the law to force any child to work. These laws have been enforced, even within immigrant communities where child labor is sometimes condoned.

While the Catholic Church retains much influence in Italian culture and education, Italian law assures its citizens of the freedom of religion. Religious icons and symbols are common in public buildings, and the government pays teachers to teach Catholicism. Muslim women are allowed to wear veils in public offices and schools, but some complaints and fines have been made against women who wear burqahs, or large cloths designed to cover the body and face.

In addition, government surveys show that there is some prejudice against immigrants, many of whom are from Muslim countries. Many Moroccan immigrants believe they are discriminated against when they apply for jobs. Waves of refugees recently arrived from North Africa have strained immigrant relations further. The government has also been proactive in educating the public about Judaism and preventing anti-Semitism by organizing educational meetings.

Italian law also prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention, and these laws are upheld. Warrants are required for searches except in the case of immediate danger. The law requires each detainee the right to a fair trial, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The Italian government allows independent human rights organizations to assess inmates' quality of life in the prison systems, and there have been some reports of overcrowding and antiquated, or outdated, prison facilities.

Overview of the Economy

Italy compensates for its relative dearth of natural resources with a robust industrial sector. It is the fifth largest economy in the world and is a member of the Group of Eight. Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita is around $34,500 (USD) (2014 estimate). Inflation, which has long plagued Italy, has been decreasing, though foreign debt is still an outstanding problem. In fact the country's credit rating has been downgraded, and fear of continued economic hardship is a concern across the Euro Zone.

Industry

Unemployment, estimated at 12.5 percent in 2014 of a workforce numbering 2.5 million, is a greater problem in the agricultural south and explains the internal migration to the north, where industry is concentrated. Italy's main trading partners are other European countries.

Small- and medium-sized businesses, privately owned, make up 94 percent of all Italian businesses. Thirty-three percent of the GDP is generated by the manufacturing industry.

Italian automobiles and clothing labels are two of the largest industries. Fiat and Alfa Romeo are the most famous automobile makers, and Italian fashion, centered in Milan, is respected the world over for labels such as Gucci, Benetton, and Versace. These two industries alone make up a major portion of the country's exports.

Labor

In 2014, Italy's unemployment rate was an estimated 12.5 percent. The automobile industry is the country's largest employer. The largest automobile company in Italy is Fiat, which has been expanding aggressively into foreign markets. Tourism, telecommunications, and agriculture also make up significant sections of the labor market. There are higher unemployment rates among women and young people in Italy in comparison to men. Approximately 40 percent of the Italian work force is unionized.

Energy/Power/Natural Resources

Italy does not have a wealth of natural resources, and many of the resources that once existed have been successfully exploited and exhausted. Sulfur, lignite, pumice, mercury, zinc, bauxite and lead are among the most prevalent minerals.

Environmental problems confronting Italy include water pollution of rivers and seas, both by industrial effluent and poor wastewater treatment, leading to deadly algae blooms among other problems. Major urban centers are also afflicted by poor air quality as a result of emissions from industry and transportation.

Fishing

Italians operate approximately 16 percent of the total European fishing fleet. Popular fish in Italy include salt cod (“baccala”) and tuna. Shrimp, anchovies and sardines are also widely used in Italian dishes. The country's fishing industry also harvest shell fish such as mussels, oysters and clams.

Forestry

Forestry is an important part of the Italian economy. Italy exports a range of forest products to Europe and the United States. The country's varied geography present a range of forest types. The most common trees in Italy are evergreen oaks, poplar trees and chestnut trees.

Mining/Metals

Stone is one of the most important mined substances in Italy. Its quarries in such areas as Carrara are legendary for having provided stone from some of the greatest structures and sculptures in the western hemisphere. Marble, travertine, and granite are all mined and processed in Italy.

Agriculture

Thirty-one percent of the total land is given over to permanent crops, with agricultural production being concentrated in the south. Less than five percent of the labor force is employed in agriculture, and though it only contributes two percent to the GDP, it is important for both domestic consumption and export to other European countries.

Among the important crops cultivated in Italy are tomatoes, apples, pears, and citrus fruits. In the north and center of the country, wheat is dominant, while in the Po Valley, potatoes, corn and sugar beets are the major crops. Grape and olive cultivation, and their subsequent processing into wine and olive oil, makes Italy a leader in these industries.

Animal Husbandry

Sheep are the most common type of large livestock, at 10.9 million head, followed by pigs, cattle, and goats. Poultry is also numerous.

Tourism

Italy is the fourth most-visited country in the world, and both foreign and domestic tourists are vital to the Italian economy. It has a highly developed infrastructure and a variety of attractions, both natural and cultural. Tourism generated over $40 billion (USD) in 2012, a decrease from a high of $46 billion in 2008. The summer months see the most visitors. The service industry, of which tourism is a part, accounts for nearly 64 percent of the total GDP.

There is no shortage of tourist sites in Italy, which boasts an estimated 95,000 churches and 20,000 cities or towns with historic and cultural value. Major archaeological sites include the Roman ruins scattered throughout the country and particularly in Rome, and the lava-preserved cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Other attractions are the sculpted fountains of Rome, the squares and canals of Venice, and the well preserved hilltop town of Siena.

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