Italy

Italy is located on the Apennine Peninsula in Southern Europe. Its distinctive shape, like a kicking boot, makes it easy to recognize on a map or even from space. Italy’s location on the Mediterranean Sea linked it to the trade routes of the ancient civilizations that developed in the region. The country is known for its more than 3,000 years of history in 753 BC. As the city of Rome rose to power, the Italian peninsula became the center of a vast empire that lasted for centuries. Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world. Italians invented pizza in Naples. Pizza, Pasta and the famous Rome come to mind. Italy is world famous for its art, culture, food, beautiful location and architecture. The Vatican Palace is the residence of the Pope within the city walls.

Facts About Italy

Official Name: Italian Republic

Form of Government : Republic

Capital : Rome

Population : 62,246,674

Currency / Money : Euro

Languages: Italian

Area: 116,324 square miles (301,277 square kilometers)

Major Rivers: Po, Adige, Arno, Tiber