Italy

On a world map, Italy resembles a high-heeled boot shape. It is symbolic that the state is called the heart of world fashion. This is a country in Southern Europe, where history and modernity harmoniously intertwined. The rich historical past left a great cultural heritage, and Italians proudly cherish their traditions, and tourists admire them. The population is more than 60 million people. Local residents have a high temperament. They are open and very emotional, they like to gesticulate during a conversation, fashionable and tasty cook. The territory of the country occupies almost 310 thousand square kilometers.

Italy is famous for its attractions. 55 monuments are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Roman Empire was created on the Apennines. Ancient monuments have been preserved in Rome, and Venice fascinates with a romantic atmosphere. Delights the hilly panorama of Tuscany. You can have fun on the southern clone of the Alps. The hallmark of the state is the Coliseum, which is called a typical amphitheater, a technical miracle of antiquity and the embodiment of the splendor of civilization. The unique structure is duplicated in other cities. Sicily is recognized as one of the major Italian islands. The Mafia Homeland « Nostra Goat » is associated with it. In Agrigento is the Valley of the Temples. They were erected in different eras. In the Chinkwe Terre Park there are historical monuments of Ancient times and the Middle Ages. The sights of the park, which has national status, are added to the list of valuable objects according to UNESCO, they are carefully protected.

In southern Italy stands the city of Sassi di Matera. The ancient caves here rise above each other and resemble the floors. Interesting pictures are obtained against their background. At the same time, this is a maze, and it is easy to get lost in it. Inside are antique relics.

You can take a bus, train or fly to Italy by plane. The best time to visit the country is allocated 2 periods: from April to June and from September to October. At this time, favorable weather and there is no influx of tourists.

The exact origin of the word « Italia » is not exactly known. There are several theories on this score. The most common point of view is that the word came from Greek. It translates as « country calves ». The fact is that the bull was a symbol of the peoples of southern Italy. In the images, he is afraid of the Roman Wolf. Italy used to be called the southern province of Calabria, but then it began to designate the whole country as a whole.

It is believed that history is more than 2500 years old. By the 5th century, the Roman Empire, which originated before our era, reached its peak. Legends studied by schoolchildren and students in many countries have laid down about her. It had vast territories, but in the 5th century the Apennine Peninsula, where Italy is located, was conquered by German, Ostgot and Gothic tribes, which settled for several centuries. Then, Venice, Milan, Pisa and other city-states began to develop in Italy. The communes lived quietly until the 16th century, and then neighboring countries began to conquer them.

In 1861, King of Sardinia Viktor Emanuel II proclaimed a single Italian state. But Rome and Venice were not included in its composition. Only in the 70s of the XIX century did Italy find the current borders. A year later, Rome was declared the capital. The city still retains this status. Its population is almost 3 million people.

Italy is now a prosperous country in Europe. But also it has the status of the first fascist European state, which Italians do not like to recall. In 1924, the dictator Benito Mussolini was in power. During his activities, Italy became an ally of Nazi Germany. The sunset of the monarchy was in 1946. Then King Umberto II renounced the throne and left his homeland. Then the rulers often changed, sometimes several times a year.

At the moment, the state is considered a republic. It is part of the European Union and NATO. In addition, the Vatican is located in Italy, which is an independent state and auxiliary territory of the Holy See, the seat of the Pope.

Italy has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. But it is difficult to call it stable. Alps act as a barrier to the north and west winds. Weather conditions are distinguished by variegation. Each province has its own weather. This must be considered when traveling. Local have long been accustomed to this trend. It is due to the fact that Italy is extended on a geographical longitude. On the territory of the mountain peaks, the climate is similar to the Arctic, but on the sea coasts a subtropical climate.

In general, the climate of Italy is accompanied by clear and warm weather. In summer, the temperature remains at + 23 ° C. The weather is mostly windy. The most favorable conditions, according to Italians, are the coast. No wonder there are many resorts on their territory. The coastline is almost 5 thousand square kilometers.

In winter, the plus temperature is maintained. In southern Italy at this time of year from + 7 ° C to + 13 ° C. In alpine alpine areas, the thermometer column drops to -20 ° C. But due to low humidity, the cold is not felt much.

The nature of Italy is diverse. Italians are proud of her. Poets and artists admire her in their work. Plants range from mosses and lichens. More than 57 thousand plants are registered. This is more than a third of all European fauna. There are many evergreen plants in the country, which is due to the mild subtropical climate. The landscape of the northern part is determined by the Alps, from where the streams originate, which merge into the rivers and form the water arteries of the Padan lowland. In mountain ranges, valleys with meadows and passes are formed.

In Italy, fertile soils. There is a lot of wheat, rice, sugar beets, fruits and vegetables grow. Exquisite wine is obtained from vineyards, which Italians export to other countries. On the picturesque hills, cypress, olive groves, flowering gardens spread. In the south you can find palm trees, pine trees, oaks, olives, figs, citrus trees and a grant.

The fauna is also multifaceted. This is the abode of 102 species of mammals, including large ones. The fauna is represented by bears, wild boars, roe deer and foxes. In addition, snakes, lizards and turtles live. Among endemic animals ‒ Corsican hares, sardine eared bats, sardine deer, apennine shrews, Calabrian pine cradles, cave salamanders, Italian newts and frogs, Sicilian lizards. The most popular invertebrates is considered a mantis.

There are 516 species of birds. The hunt for them is still uncontrolled. On the shores of the lakes live ducks with geese, golden eagles, cut and capercaillie fly in the mountains. Italy is an important route of migratory birds, among which ‒ storks, kites and moons.

Sea fauna is composed of Cystozira biocenosis, algae, coral reefs and more than 100 species of fish and invertebrates. A lot of trout, caras and carps. Also among the common species ‒ swordfish, dorada, cod, tuna. For someone, fishing is a hobby. But some fishermen sell catch for sale. Fish can be bought at the market and supermarkets. It is exported to other cities and countries.

Italy is located in the central part of the Mediterranean. This is one of many reasons why the state is called the cradle of European civilization. The state is located on the Apennine Peninsula, which resembles the shape of a boot. It consists of large and small islands. Administratively, it is divided into 20 regions, and they are in turn divided into 110 provinces. The population is more than 60 million people, tourists come annually.

The Ligurian coast is rocky, so there are few travelers in this place. The most popular place for beach lovers is the Adriatic coast. The beaches are sandy. And almost all the beaches of the Ionian Sea are marked with the Blue Flag.

The closest neighbors of Italy are France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia. Inside Italy are enclave states. We are talking about San Marino and the Vatican, with a rich historical, spiritual and artistic heritage. With each of them, Italy has an internal border of almost 40 and 3.3 kilometers, respectively.

Italian cuisine is famous for culinary masterpieces. They are widely known throughout the world. Many nations have tried pizza, spaghetti, lasagna and risotto and are preparing them for lunch and dinner. And you can talk about Italian wines endlessly. Italians attribute them to works of winemaking art, and it's hard to argue with that. According to statistics, every third bottle of wine was produced on the Apennine Peninsula.

In northern Italy, dishes with veal and chicken, lean pork varieties are popular. Sauces are made from chopped meat. They are also represented in great diversity. Venice often serves fish. Restaurants advise you to try fish soups, rice with fish, shrimp, shellfish with cornmeal. Ravioli are prepared throughout the country, resembling square dumplings, pizza, pasta and risotto. A lot of pasta varieties. In some establishments, you can order green-white-red pasta. It is specially painted in the color of the Italian flag.

At gastronomic festivals you can try different types of cheeseses. The most famous is parmesan. It is produced in Emilia-Romagna and exported worldwide. The most popular restaurants include Piazza Duomo, which has been operating since 2005, Le Calandre, which received 3 Michelin stars, La Pergola, recognized as the best Roman restaurant, according to Italian culinary critics.

In Italy, the monetary system is in euros. It is better to exchange currency before traveling, because it will be more profitable. You can rest in the country all year round. If you fly by plane, booking tickets is in advance. So you can save money.

In winter, you can snowboard and ski in the Alps, and the rest of the year you can arrange a beach holiday for yourself and go on excursions to historical places. You can completely update the wardrobe, the cheapest shopping will be at the beginning of the year. At this time, many come to Milan to get on sale of fashion brands.

It is advisable for tourists to know Italian. Many cities and provinces speak English, but Sicily is an exception, so there is a lot of chance of remaining incomprehensible, which will complicate the rest.

Almost all Italian cafes and restaurants can eat deliciously. Tipping is usually included in the account, but it will be a good tone to additionally leave 10% of the order amount. In small cities, you need to be prepared for the fact that many restaurants and shops close every day from 13.00 to 15.00, and sometimes until 16.00. This time is called a siesta, a break for relaxation, which can be used for afternoon sleep.

Italy is rightfully considered a car country. Nearly 90% of local residents travel by car. Right-hand traffic, overtaking on the left side is permitted. It is important to apply for a speed limit sign, this is carefully monitored here and fines are issued to all violators. One quarter of all European freeways are in Apennines. The main road is the motorway № 1, which is called « Sun motorway » due to sunny weather, characteristic of many parts of Italy.

To rent a car, you must have an international driver's license. You can rent different machines for every taste and wallet, from the most budget models to luxury cars.

There are many cashmering companies operating in the country. The international search engines Discovercar, Economybookings, Rentalcars, Auto Europe are popular. If there is no right or desire to be driving, you can rent a vehicle with an experienced driver who will deliver passengers to anywhere in Italy.

Customs rules are strict. If the amount of funds will exceed 10 thousand 329 euros, it is necessary to draw up a declaration. Alcoholic drinks are allowed to be transported from 17 years. You can cross the border with strong alcohol up to 1 liter and up to 2 liters of strong alcohol. Smokers prefer to take cigarettes with them, because in Italy they are expensive. But with you it is allowed to take 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Perfume can be imported in the amount of not more than 50 ml, and toilet water ‒ not more than 250 ml.

All items of historical value must be transported along with accompanying documents. They are issued at the Ministry of Culture. Narcotic substances, firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited. You can not import meat and dairy products.

Most Italian stores operate on the Tax Free system. And within the framework of the program, you can return up to 15% of the amount of the value of the goods, so you need to save checks from purchases. The tax is returned in cash or by transfer to the card, you can choose a convenient way at your discretion.

The Italian people love holidays, and festivals here are held on a large scale. They are divided into 2 types: civil and religious. Most of the population are Catholics, and the minority is ‒ Protestants, Buddhists and Muslims. Any event takes place colorfully, with processions and festivities.

The largest festival is the Venice Carnival. Every year it brings together more than half a million people in Venice. A costume holiday is celebrated in February. Masks create with their own hands. This is one of the conditions for participating in the mask contest.

Scale in Italy celebrate New Year. January 1 is declared a day off. Events are held on the street. A large festive program with concerts and theatrical performances is being prepared. People drink open-air wine. There is a tradition of breaking empty containers for happiness.

The Solsfizio al castello Gastronomic Festival takes place in mid-September. It is celebrated with a great feast where you can try national dishes and taste local wine.

In February and September, Fashion Week is held in Milan. On the shows you can see fashionable exclusive collections. It’s hard to get to the event without an invitation. But famous models will perform on podiums. They represent the clothes of eminent couther. There is a broadcast on the streets.

Italian shopping is a combination of pleasant and useful. You can have fun, relax on the beach or visit local attractions, and then make a number of successful purchases and buy souvenirs to friends in memory of your trip. It is advisable to know when seasonal sales are taking place. The most expensive boutiques are concentrated in Milan. They consist of collections of fashion designers. Clothing, shoes and accessories of very high quality.

Mostly stores open from 8-9 in the morning and close at 19.00. The lunch break runs from 13.00 to 15.00. This gap is also called siesta. Discounts on goods can reach 70% of the total cost. Outlets, shopping centers are especially popular, which sell products of large brands at a low price all year round.

In addition to clothes in Italy, they buy local cheese, fine wines, original vases and jewelry made of Muran glass.

In addition to traditional magnets, you can bring tablecloth, shawl and lace napkins as souvenirs. In Rome, souvenirs with the attributes of the Vatican, figures of gladiators and the Pisa Tower, duplicates of ancient coins are often bought.

A cultural program can be chosen taking into account different interests. They come to Italy to get acquainted with history and look at the sights, to gain positive emotions during your vacation. One of the most luxurious museums in the world is the Uffizi Gallery. She is in Florence. The exhibits consist of the unique works of Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Michelangelo and other geniuses of painting. In Antique Pompeii you can move to the 70s of our era. In those years, Vesuvius was an ordinary hill. People did not realize that one day the volcano would wake up. It has become an apocalypse for a prosperous Roman city that has turned into ruins.

The Pisa Tower is considered another recognizable Italian symbol. The uniqueness of the unique tower is that it is tilted. Architects did not try to achieve this effect. This happened because of a poor foundation. But it became the tower chip. However, it is worth noting that measures are being taken so that it does not collapse under the weight of its own gravity.

Italians recommend visiting the La Scala Opera House in Milan. The concert hall has perfect acoustics. There may be 2030 spectators at a time. The opening took place in 1778. Restoration work has not greatly changed the external and internal decoration of the neoclassical style.

Genoa Aquarium is designed for families with children. The total area is 6 million liters of water. This is the second largest tank in Europe. It is inhabited by stingrays, toothy piranhas, penguins and other representatives of the fauna of the planet. Another popular place is the Time Elevator in Rome, which is a 5D cinema. It was equipped with the latest technology. It consists of flying armchairs and panoramic screens. A virtual journey will give a lot of vivid impressions.

About 40 thousand hotels are open in Italy. Accommodation is comfortable. The guests do not complain about the conditions or the quality of service. Prices are different, the peaks of tourist seasons in spring, summer and autumn are most expensive. In most cases, you can book a room in advance. The more amenities and comfort, the more expensive it will be to stay.

Rooms in private guest houses like bed and breakfast and hotels near train stations are very popular. In these conditions, in addition to overnight and breakfast, you can take a bath and use the phone. No less popular campsites. In Italy there are approximately 2 thousand of them. You can spend the night in alpine huts and youth hostels.

The status of the most fashionable Italian hotel is maintained by the Bulgari boutique hotel in Milan. The numbers here are thought out to the smallest detail. The hotel has an atmosphere of luxury and exclusivity. This manifests itself in everything, from a soft pile of towels to breakfast cereals served in elegant serving.