Names of Italian cities. The best cities of italy - a map of italy with cities in Russian, the most beautiful, large italian cities

Italy - the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Italy, climate, geography, population and culture.

Italy (Repubblica Italiana)

Italy is a state in southern Europe in the center of the Mediterranean, located mostly on the Apennine Peninsula. The country also occupies a small (northwestern) part Balkan Peninsula, the Padan Plain, the Southern Alps and a number of large and small islands mediterranean sea including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy borders France in the northwest, Switzerland and Austria in the north, and Slovenia in the northeast. The state also has internal borders with the Vatican and San Marino. This is a country with the greatest cultural, historical and artistic heritage, the cradle of one of the greatest empires in the history of mankind and the Renaissance.

Italy is one of the most unique and charming places in the world. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Europe, the world's largest treasure trove of history, culture and art, a favorable warm climate and delicious authentic cuisine. However, Italy is far from perfect. Her historical cities and antiquities suffer from modern development, the infrastructure is working at its peak, there are problems in the economy and the social sphere. But, having been here, you will definitely fall in love with this country for its violent temperament, reckless disposition, delicious cuisine and special atmosphere.

Useful information about Italy

The population is 60.8 million people (according to this indicator, Italy ranks 23rd in the world).
The area is 301,340 square kilometers.
The language is Italian.
Currency - euro.
Visa - Schengen.
Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
VAT ( Tax Free) can be returned from the purchase of 154.94 euros.
The mains voltage is 220 V, 50 Hz. Attention: Italy uses its own electrical connector, so some devices may require an adapter. It can be bought at any supermarket.
Italy is enough safe country. The main thing is to follow basic safety rules and beware of scammers in popular tourist places.
Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President. The executive branch is the Parliament, headed by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

Geography and nature

Italy is located in Southern Europe in the Mediterranean. Most of country lies on the Apennine Peninsula. The area is mostly hilly and mountainous. From the north, Italy is supported by the Southern Alps, and the Apennine Mountains are located on the peninsula. The territory of the country is located at the point of contact of lithospheric plates, so earthquakes are not rare here. In addition, there are several major volcanoes: Etna, Vesuvius, etc.

Italy is a huge coastline. The country is washed by the following seas of the Mediterranean waters: the Adriatic and Ionian in the east, the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian in the west. The largest river is the Po River. Large lakes- Garda, Como.

Thanks to geographical and climatic features very diverse nature of Italy. Although most of the territory has been changed by human activity in antiquity. In the north, on the slopes of the Alps, mixed and coniferous forests, on the coast and south - subtropical plants. central part countries are a mixture of the nature of subtropics and temperate latitudes.

Climate

The climate of Italy is very diverse and can be very different from the Mediterranean in some regions. In most of the territory, summers are very warm and dry, and July is the hottest month. Autumn is usually rainy. Winters are cool and wet (hence often foggy) in the north and milder in the south. In the provinces, which are located in the foothills of the Alps, the climate is mountainous. Summers are cool, while winters are cold and snowy.

Best time to visit

Italy has a favorable warm climate. Although it can be quite cold in the Alps and foothills. To choose the best time to visit, you need to weigh several factors: hotel and food prices, weather, cultural events and seasonal atmosphere. Most high season- summer. If you want to come to Italy to explore its wonderful cultural and historical heritage, then it is better to choose the lowest season - winter. Most optimal time in terms of weather and number of tourists - April-May and September-October.

Story

The history of Italy is very rich and varied. The country during the period of its existence knew ups and downs, was fragmented and united. In ancient times, a great empire arose on its territory - the Roman Empire. And it is Italy that can be called the cradle of Western civilization.

The territory of modern Italy was inhabited more than 50 thousand years ago. The name of the country comes from a tribe of Italians who, in the 5th century BC, inhabited a small part of the Emilia-Romagna region. Already in the 3rd century, Italy was understood to mean the entire peninsula up to the Rubicon River, and in the 2nd century, the territory up to the slopes of the Alps. In the pre-Roman period, the Ligurians, Etruscans, Umbrians and even the Gauls lived here.

In 753 BC, Rome was founded on the Tiber River. The Romans gradually began to spread their influence over the entire Apennine Peninsula. Rome was originally ruled by 7 kings. In 509, the kings were replaced by a republic. During the Republican period, an active military expansion to other tribes began. By the 3rd century BC, Rome had conquered much of present-day Italy.

In 390, the Gauls defeated the Roman army, captured and burned Rome.

The growth of the power of Rome and the spread of its influence in the Mediterranean led to a clash with Carthage. As a result of the three Punic wars, Carthage was destroyed, and its territory became part of the republic. In the 1st century, the republic was shaken by internal conflicts. First there was an uprising of slaves led by Spartacus. Later, a civil war broke out, in which Julius Caesar won. He established a dictatorship and laid the foundations for an empire.

After the assassination of Julius Caesar, power passed to Octavian Augustus, who is considered the founder of the Roman Empire. After the death of the first Roman emperor, power passed to Tiberius, who became the first of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The Claudian dynasty ended in the middle of the 1st century AD with the assassination of Nero. Further, until the end of the 1st century, Rome was ruled by the Flavian dynasty, which was replaced first by the Antonin dynasty, and later by the Severs. During this period, the Roman Empire reached the peak of its power and development, owning almost all Southern Europe, a huge part Western Europe And North Africa.

The fall of Rome began in the 4th century. In 330 Emperor Constantine founded Constantinople and moved his capital there. At the end of the 4th century, the Western and Eastern Roman Empires were formed. In the 5th century, the Vandals and Visigoths invaded Italy. Rome was taken and sacked, and the mighty ancient empire fell. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) existed after that for almost a thousand years and fell only in the 15th century.

In the 5th century, the Ostrogoths conquered Italy. In the 6th century, the kingdom of the Lombards arose in the north. In the 8th-11th century, Italy was part of the Frankish empire. Its southern part during this period was captured by the Normans. In the 11th-13th centuries, the Frankish empire was destroyed. The power was concentrated in the "hands" of the Popes. The Kingdom of Sicily and several free states in Northern Italy arose.

In the 13th and 15th centuries, the power of the popes was greatly reduced. Many states arose on the territory of Italy: the kingdom of Naples, the Papal States, the republics and Genoa, Savoy, Milan. At the end of this period, the Renaissance began, with Florence as its cradle.

At the end of the 15th - the first half of the 16th century, several Italian wars broke out. The first Italian war arose because of French claims to the north of the country. French troops occupied Tuscany, Rome and moved towards Naples. But they were stopped by the union of Venice, Milan and Emperor Maximilian. During the second Italian war, France captured Genoa and Milan, and Spain -. As a result of the third war, the Spaniards defeated the French, who were forced to abandon their claims to Italy. In the 16th century, most of its territory was under Spanish influence.

At the beginning of the 18th century, after the War of the Spanish Succession, Italy became part of the Austrian Habsburg Empire. At the end of the 18th century, French troops entered here. At this time, several republics were formed, which later merged into the Italian Republic, in 1805 transformed into a kingdom. During this period, there is a movement for freedom and independence - the Risorgimento. By 1860, the unification of the country around the Sardinian kingdom begins. In 1870, Rome became part of the Italian kingdom, which became its capital.

At the start of World War I, Italy declared its neutrality. But in 1915 she joined the Entente. In 1919, the fascist movement arises here. In 1922, the fascists led by Mussolini came to power. In 1940 Italy joined the Second world war on the German side. In 1943 she capitulated. Mussolini's regime was overthrown in 1945. In 1947, the Constitution was adopted and the country became a parliamentary republic.

Administrative division

Administratively, Italy is divided into 20 regions: Valle d'Aosta, Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Liguria, Venice, Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia Romagna, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise, Basilicata, Campania , Calabria, Apulia, Sardinia and Sicily. The capital of the country is Rome. The regions, in turn, are divided into provinces, of which there are 110.

Also conditionally Italy can be divided into regions:

Northwestern Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta) is the richest and most developed region of the country. Here is the country's largest port - Genoa, the main financial and business center - Milan, the center of industry and technology - Turin.
Northeast Italy (Emilia Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto) is a diverse region with beautiful Venice and one of the main student cities - Bologna, charming Parma and romantic Verona. You can find almost everything here, from ski resorts and the natural beauties of South Tyrol to the coast and beaches.
Central Italy (Lazio, Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria) - breathes history, culture and art. Here are the most important sights of the country and the most famous artistic masterpieces. The cities here need no introduction: the eternal city is the legendary Rome, the cradle of the Renaissance and modern Italian- Florence, ancient Pisa, Lucca and Siena.
Southern Italy (Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise) - South Region with incredible temperament: stormy Naples, the dramatic ruins of Pompeii, the romantic coast of Amalfi and Capri.
The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are beautiful sea and beaches. Here are the most famous resorts Italy.

Population

In terms of population, Italy ranks fourth in the European Union. Over 90% of the population are Italians. Large diasporas: Romanians, immigrants from North Africa, Albanians. Official language- Italian. German is also spoken in Bolzano and South Tyrol, Slovenian in Trieste and French in Aosta.

The Italians themselves are open, friendly, very temperamental and emotional. Although there are differences between the North and the South. So in the north of Italy people are more closed, punctual and pragmatic, while in the South everything is quite the opposite.

Italians are very traditional, proud of their country and cuisine. They love their region very much, have fun and eat well.

Transport

Major international airports:

Rome - with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO - Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino for low cost airlines.
Milan - with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). In addition, there is an airport in Bergamo (BGY - Orio al Serchio).
Bologna (BLQ - Guglielmo Marconi).
Naples (NAP - Capodichino).
Pisa (PSA - Galileo Galilei).
Venice (VCE - Marco Polo).
Treviso (TSF - Antonio Canova).
Turin (TRN - Sandro Pertini).
Palermo (PMO - Punta Raisi).
Catania (CTA - Vincenzo Bellini).
Bari (BRI - Palese).
Genoa (GOA - Cristoforo Colombo).

Railway communication connects Italy with Germany (via Munich), Austria (Vienna, Innsbruck, Villach), France (Paris, Lyon, Nice), Switzerland (Basel, Geneva), Spain (via Barcelona). high speed trains go to the largest cities in Italy: Rome, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Naples.

Separately, it is worth noting the highways that permeate the entire country. These roads are simply of excellent quality and do not differ in any way from the famous German autobahns, except that they are paid. When entering the motorway, you need to take a special ticket. When leaving, you need to give this ticket to the cashier or insert it into a special machine. Cash and bank cards. Payment methods are indicated on special signs.

Cities of Italy

Italy has hundreds of popular cities worth visiting. Almost every city boasts interesting sights and rich history. But there are places that you must see. Our Top 10 cities in Italy:

Rome is the capital of Italy and one of its oldest cities. A place where history literally froze on the streets, and sights have long become symbols of the whole country.
- one of the most romantic cities in the world. Unique place with canals, bridges, gondolas and wonderful architecture.
Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, the city where Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, Michelangelo and dozens of other geniuses were born. The capital of Tuscany will amaze you with museums and art collections.
Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Modern metropolis, financial and business center of the country. If you are interested in shopping, this is the right place for you.
- the capital of the Italian south. An ancient city with a southern temperament and the birthplace of pizza.
- one of the most romantic cities in Italy, where you can touch the history and feel like the heroes of Shakespeare.
Bologna is the gastronomic capital of the country, a city of youth, culture and art.
Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany with the famous leaning tower.
Turin is the first capital of the United Italy, a city of industry and technology.
Genoa is the largest Italian port, a city with a rich history and many attractions.

Other places of interest:

Lake Garda and Como, as well as the pearl of the Dolomites - Braies.
Italian Alps And South Tyrol- picturesque nature and stunning mountains.
Amalfi is a rocky coastline with beautiful towns.
The Cinque Terre are charming seaside towns on the Ligurian coast.
Pompeii and Herculaneum are the ruins of ancient cities destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.
Sardinia - stunning beaches and seascapes.

Attractions

Italy has so many attractions that no other country in the world has. There are 53 objects on its territory world heritage UNESCO. Only listing the main attractions will take several pages. Therefore, only symbolic sights are indicated here.

A grandiose antique amphitheater and probably the most famous attraction in Italy. Located in Rome. It was built in just 8 years. The construction was started by Emperor Vespasian and finished by Titus.

The Colosseum is made in the form of a giant ellipse. This is the largest amphitheater of antiquity, striking in its size - the outer axis is 524 meters long, the area is 85 x 53 meters, and the height is from 48 to 50 meters. This is one of the most striking and huge structures of ancient Rome.

One of the greatest domed structures in the world. It was built between 25-27 AD. consul Mark Vipsanius Agrippa and rebuilt in 126 after a fire during the reign of Hadrian. Pantheon means "temple of all gods". This is one of the best preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

The heart of the Roman Empire, the main political and community Center ancient Rome. It is a rectangular square surrounded by the remains of ancient buildings and temples. The Roman Forum is located in the valley between the Capitoline and Palatine hills in the center of the capital of Italy.

Vatican - heart Catholic world, a mini-state in the center of Rome. Here is the largest Christian church in the world. And the Vatican Museums display great treasures of art.

leaning tower of pisa- the famous leaning tower, the main symbol of Pisa. It was conceived as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built for almost two centuries from the 12th century. The height of the tower is more than 50 meters, and the deviation from the axis is at least 4%.

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main attraction and one of the most recognizable symbols of Florence. Beautiful and imposing, the cathedral, finished in pink, white and green marble, is made in gothic style and is located in the historic center on Piazza Duomo. Santa Maria del Fiore is built on the site where once stood ancient cathedral capital of Tuscany - Santa Reparata, the remains of which are visible in the crypt.

Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente is a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the square of the same name. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful Gothic church. The Duomo was built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof is topped with 135 spiers and the façade is adorned with 2,245 marble statues.

Amalfi is a stunning stretch of coast south of Naples with picturesque towns who climb the sheer cliffs.

Venice - city amazing beauty which is an attraction in itself. More than 20 million tourists come here to see the charming canals, graceful architecture and bridges, ride gondolas, walk along San Marco, see the Rialto Bridge, buy glassware on the island of Murano and photograph the colorful houses of Burano. The historic center of Venice is built on 118 islands in the Venetian lagoon.

Pompeii - legendary ancient city, destroyed during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD at the height of its power. Despite the lava flows and tons of ash that buried the city and its inhabitants, it has been preserved in a fantastic state.

Accommodation

In major cities and popular tourist areas, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from world-class hotels to family hotels and apartments. One caveat - there are few hostels in Italy. In Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, Apulia and Emilia Romagna, agritourism is becoming more and more popular. In Italy, you can find many charming hotels with two stars or less.

The cost of living depends on the popularity of the region, place and season. Most high prices for hotels from May to August. The lowest are in winter. In general, prices for hotels and apartments, compared to the rest of Europe, in Italy are not the highest. Most of the money for living will be needed in Milan, Venice, around Lakes Garda and Como. Although there you can find interesting and cheap options.

Kitchen

Italian cuisine is perhaps the most delicious and varied in Europe. At the same time, the cuisine remains purely regional. Believe me, Italian cuisine is not only pasta and pizza. These are a huge number of dishes and ingredients that can satisfy any gourmet.

Traditional dishes Italian cuisine and products:

Pizza is one of the most popular Italian dishes that has spread widely around the world. Each region has its own traditions of its preparation. How pizza is prepared in Italy - it is not cooked anywhere else.
Risotto - rice with meat, vegetables and seafood.
Polenta - corn grits with meat.
Pasta (spaghetti, pasta) with sauces and meat.
Lasagna.
Tortellini - Italian dumplings with cheese and meat
Gelato is ice cream.
Panini sandwiches.
Cheese. Some types of cheese can only be produced in a specific region. More than 800 types of cheese are produced in Italy.
Wine.
Olive oil.
Sausage and ham - more than 400 types.

Wine is the main drink in Italy. Grapes are grown in almost every province, except for the highlands. Each region has strong winemaking traditions.

Rich story, developed tourist infrastructure, an abundance of attractions, comfortable hotels, lots of entertainment, delicious food and hospitality of local residents - all of these "charms" are directly related to Italy. Located in the country a large number of cities, each with its own unique features. We will talk about the 10 most popular Italian cities for tourists in today's article.

Rome. The capital of Italy dates back to 753 BC. In the past, the Roman Empire was considered one of the most powerful not only on the continent, but throughout the world. Today, Rome is a real find for tourists. Here guests of the city can get acquainted with his ancient history with the help of the preserved ancient Roman Forums, the Pantheon, thermae, triumphal arches. No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the legendary Colosseum. The Middle Ages presented the Italian capital with many architectural monuments: the Trastevere quarter, the Lateran Palace, Villa Madama, Aragon Gonzaga Palace, Alicorni Palace, Villa del Priorato di Malta, Piazza Navona, etc. Travelers will be introduced to the cultural side of the city and the state by the National Roman Museum, the National Gallery contemporary art, the Capitoline, the Vatican Museums, the Lateran and Borghese galleries. An integral part of Rome are its religious buildings: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Cathedral of St. Petra, the Sistine Chapel, the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, the Church of Santa Maria della Concecione, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio e Carlo al Corso, the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano, etc. No less interesting Italian capital for nature lovers. In the city you can visit the Avetinsky Hill, Pincho Park, Janiculum Hill, City Botanical Garden, Palatine Hill, palace and park complex"House of Nero"
Do not forget about the Vatican - a small independent state, which is located on the right bank of the Tiber. Here you can see many medieval churches built famous architects and decorated with the best Italian sculptors and artists.
Florence. This city is located in Italian region Tuscany on the Arno. Florence acquired the status of a city around the middle of the 3rd century, and a century later it turned into the residence of the local bishop. Today this city is called the "Cradle of the Renaissance". Many prominent personalities were born here: Leonardo da Vinci, Amerigo Vespucci, Dante, Nicolo Machiavelli, Galileo, Michelangelo, Donatello, etc. Today, Florence is in the top five most popular Italian cities. Guests of the city will have to get acquainted with many religious attractions: the Cathedral (Duomo), the Basilica of Santo Spirito, the Church of Santissima Annunziata, the Temple of San Lorenzo, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, the Church of Santa Croce, the Basilica of San Marco, etc. Get new knowledge about art is possible with the help of cultural heritage the city located in the following institutions: the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace Museum, the National Museum in the Bargello Palace, the Uffizi Gallery, the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore Museum, etc. The architectural masterpieces of the city are recognized palaces of Vecchio, Medici Riccardi, Strozzi, Rucellai and numerous squares: the Republic, St. Mark, St. Trinity, Senoria, Liberty, Santissima Annunziata, All Saints. special attention deserves the statue of David located in the Academy fine arts Florence. No less popular are the natural sites of the city: Torrigiani Garden, Boboli Gardens, Cascine Park, etc.
Milan. This northern metropolis is the second in the list of major Italian cities. The first founders of Milan are the Celts who lived in northern Italy in 600 BC. In 222 BC. The Romans conquered the city and made it part of their Empire. Today Milan has the status of the financial and economic capital of Italy. It is also known as the most "fashionable" Italian city. Tourists who come to Milan should definitely visit gothic cathedral Santa Maria Nashente and other religious buildings of the city: the churches of Santa Maria del Grazie, Sant Ambrogio, Sant Cristoforo sul Naviglio, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, the abbey of Santa Maria di Rovegnano, the basilicas of Sant Eustorgio and San Lorenzo Maggiore. The following objects will help you get acquainted with the outstanding architecture of the metropolis: the Sforza Castle, the palace of the commercial bank, legal advisers, the Palatine, Borommeo, Senate schools, as well as the unique Royal Palace. It would be an unforgivable omission to refuse to visit the Milanese squares: Duomo, dei Mercanti, San Fedele, Cordusio, La Scala, Royal, etc. Do not forget about museum institutions and galleries: the archaeological museum, the Brera and Ambrosiana Pinacoteca, the Da Vinci Museum, the Risorgimento Museum , museum of science and arts, etc. Milan provides the following facilities for lovers of walks: the park to them. John Paul II, Indro Montanelli City Garden, Sempione Park, Lake Maggiore. Shopping is a must when visiting Milan. To this end, we recommend visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II, designer shops in Duomo Square, Corso Buenos Aires Avenue, Brera district, Serravalle Scrivia, FoxTown, Franciacorta Outlet Village, etc.
Venice. The world famous "city on the water" is located in northern Italy in the province of Venice. The name of this area is closely related to the first settlers - the Veneti tribe, who named the area Venetia. Urban settlements began to be created in the Venetian Lagoon in the 6th century. Most of the pompous architecture of the city was formed in the XIV-XVI centuries. Venice is big today tourist center which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It hosts world film festivals and art exhibitions, performances by famous theater groups and other events. Distinctive feature Venice is its specific transport - River tram. Also in the city there is an opportunity to ride a gondola, or use the services river taxi. Arriving in Venice, tourists tend to visit the maximum possible number of attractions. Particularly attractive is the architecture of the city, represented by the following objects: the Doge's Palace, Cathedral Santa Maria Assuanta, Palace of Ca' Vendramin Calergi, Basilica of San Pietro di Castello, Palace of Ca' Dario, Arsenal, Palace of Fondaco dei Turchi, Church of Santa Maria dei Frari, Palace of Contarini del Bovolo, Cathedral of St. Mark, Church of Santa Maria del Giglio, St. Stamp, Rialto Bridge, Constitutions, Sighs. You can get acquainted with works of art in the palaces of CaʼPesaro, Doge, Fortuny, the Accademia Gallery, the Correr Museums and the Palazzo Mocenigo. You can relax from the bustle of the city in the Venetian Gardens, the Rimembranze, Giardinetti Realii and Giardini Pubblizi parks. Do not forget about the numerous islands of the city, as well as river walks along the Grand Canal, which stretches through the whole city.
Pisa. The popular cities of Italy cannot do without the presence of Pisa on this list. famous city located in the Tuscany region, 10 km from the Ligurian Sea. From 180 BC Pisa is a colony of the Roman Empire. In those days, it served as a naval base. Despite its small size, the city is literally "teeming" with a variety of attractions. Of course, the first in the list of notable Leaning objects is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, located on the Square of Miracles. Next to it are the Baptistery and Pisa Cathedral, as well as the Campo Santo cemetery. In addition, you can see many beautiful architectural monuments and sites in the city: the Church of Santa Maria dela Spina, the Knights' Square, the palaces of Carovana dela and al Borgo di Corliano, the basilicas of San Nicola, San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno, San Sistoyu, San Frediano, Santo Sepolcro , whole historic quarter San Martino. A visit to Pisa is not complete without a visit to the following places: Museum San Matteo, galleries of Borgo Stretto, the botanical garden, the university of the city, etc.
Verona. A northeastern city located in the region of Venice. Verona became part of the Roman Empire in 80 BC. Every year, the city hosts a summer opera festival, which attracts people from all over the world. Verona is also known as the Italian city of romance and love. Arriving here, tourists admire the extraordinary beauty of the city, its development and abundance of attractions. The architectural monuments of the Italian city include the ancient Roman amphitheater Arena di Verona, Juliet's house, the Castelvecchio castle, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, the Erbe case, the Lamberti tower, the Palace of Reason, the Ponte Pietra bridges, the Scaligers, the house of merchants, the Maffei Palace, the Cathedral cities. In Verona there is an opportunity to visit interesting museums: in the Castellvecchio castle, a gallery of modern art, archaeological, canonical museums, a museum of frescoes, an episcopal library, etc. For nature lovers, the Giusti garden and park complex, Francescatti garden, Sigurta park are open in the city.
Genoa. This Italian city is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea in scenic area Liguria. Genoa became a famous port in the 10th century, and in the 12th century it acquired the status of an independent state. Today, the capital of Liguria offers its guests a lot of entertainment and excursions, during which tourists will get acquainted with architectural masterpieces(Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Porta Soprano, Basilica of Santissima Annunziata del Vastato, Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, Staglieno Cemetery, Lanterna Lighthouse, Palazzo dei Roli, Ducale, Bianco, Rosso, Church of Sant'Agostino), walk along the beautiful Garibaldi Street and Piazza Ferrari, will visit the Oriental Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the gallery of the Rosso Palace and Modern Art, the Museum of Paper, maritime museum, the museums of Garibaldi, Iginiano, etc. The nature of Genoa is no less beautiful, which can be appreciated in natural park"Aveto".
Rimini. This beautiful resort town is located in the Emilia-Romagna region on the Adriatic Sea. In 268 BC. Rimini became a colony of the Roman Empire. In addition to a full beach holiday resort guests will see many interesting sights: Castel Sismondo Castle, Surgeon's House, Briolli Palace, Malatesta Temple, Cavour Square, Clock Tower, Tiberius Bridge, Arch of Augustus, Italy in Miniature Park, Rimini Fiera exhibition complex, city and ethnographic museums, Marechia Park, etc.
Pompeii. Near Naples is the world-famous Italian city of Pompeii, with which terrible tragedy which took place in 79. The volcano Vesuvius buried the prosperous city under a layer of ash. Today, Pompeii is a famous open-air museum, which is on the UNESCO heritage list. Visitors to the city will see a large number of ancient buildings: the amphitheater, the Porta Marina gate, the Odeon, the Lupanarium, the basilica, the forum, the temples of Vespasian, Venus, Isis, Jupiter and Apollo, the Stabius Baths, the house of the Faun, the Perfumer, the Vettii and the Tragic Poet, the Villa Oplontis, The Bolshoi and Maly theatres, an exhibition of plaster casts, etc. Tourists can buy memorable souvenirs on Plenty Street.
Naples. In the bay Gulf of Naples The Campania region is home to the 3rd largest Italian city, Naples. The city was founded by the Greeks in the 18th century BC. Later it became a colony of the Roman Empire. Tourists visiting Naples will have to get acquainted with big amount Local Attractions: Cathedral of St. Januarius, the castle of Maschio Angioino and Sant Elmo, royal palace, archaeological museum, the gallery of Umberto I, the catacombs of Napoli Sotteranea, the municipality square, the palace and the national museum di Capodimonte, the church of St. Clara, the Fontanelle Cemetery, the Museum of the Arts of Health, the majestic Vesuvius and other architectural and cultural monuments.

Note: There are 448 churches in Naples. The most famous are the chapels of San Lorenzo Maggiore, San Gennaro, Sangro di San Severo, Jesu Novo, etc.

What is Italy famous for? our readers will ask. You will find the answer to this question in the material described above. Fashionable Milan, stunning Venice, majestic Rome, welcoming Rimini, unique Pisa, cultural Florence, historic Pompeii - the list is endless. Each city pleases its guests with an abundance of sights, after viewing which tourists go home with an updated baggage of knowledge, a lot of vivid photographs and inexpressible emotions.

This is one of the most popular holiday countries among tourists from all over the world. The rich history of Italy, its colorful architecture, warm sea and beautiful beaches will please everyone. This is a country of celebration, entertainment, sparkling wine and famous Italian cuisine.

Popular tourist cities in Italy are majestic Rome, romantic Venice, trendy Milan, inspiring Florence, amazing Verona and the pearl of the south of Naples. Each of them is unique and unique in its own way, and having visited them, you will definitely want to return there.

City of Rome

The capital of Italy and the most densely populated city this country is majestic. Business card of the city of the Colosseum - the ancient Arena, erected back in the distant year 72 of the beginning of our era. The Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Sistine Chapel, and many other sights amaze with their splendor.

Located in the vicinity of the city small state Vatican, the main Catholic center of the whole world. Every year it is visited by a huge number of tourists. Rome is a striking combination of modern buildings with ancient buildings.

City of Venice

Have a good rest in the best cities of Italy!

10

10th place - Catania

Population: 315 052
Region: Sicily
Square: 180.88 km2

Catania has become the trophy of many empires throughout its history: from the Greeks to the Romans, from the Arabs to the Normans and the Spaniards. However, the most terrible enemy of the locals is right next door - Mount Etna, the largest and most active volcano in Europe, which destroyed the city in a series of earthquakes and a lava flow in 1693. Catania also has a second name - the city is usually called Black: this is due to the fact that it is completely built of volcanic stone of a specific black color. The color of the city's houses successfully contrasts with the bright color of the sea and the sky (by the way, it is sunny for 2,500 hours a year). Thus, Catania is the sunniest city in the country.

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9th place - Bari

Population: 321 687
Region: Apulia
Square: 116 km 2

Bari - the capital of the Puglia region - is located at the very base of the heel of the Italian boot. "If there was a sea in Paris, it would be a little Bari", - locals say with the arrogance of true southerners, and this opinion is very similar to the truth: the air here is imbued with the charm of medieval European cities, and the abundance of sights can easily compete with the historical center of the capital of France. In a word, Bari is a kind of miniature cultural capital Italian south.

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8th place - Florence

Population: 379 102
Region: Tuscany
Square: 102.41 km2

Florence is located in the Tuscany region, on the Arno River, at the foot of the Northern Apennines. The city was founded in 59 BC. e. Julius Caesar. Although long before that, the Etruscans lived here. In 570, the Lombards captured the city, and two hundred years later, the Franks. The heyday of Florence falls on the XV-XVI centuries, when the city becomes a major cultural center. At this time, the great Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Petrarch, Dante live and work here.

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7th place - Bologna

Population: 379 102
Region: Emilia-Romagna
Square: 140.73 km2

Bologna is a city in the central part of Italy, administrative center province of Bologna and the region of Emilia-Romagna. The oldest university center in Europe. It is considered one of the first cities in Italy in terms of living standards, both because of its highly developed industrial traditions and its location at the intersection of important transport routes. In the Middle Ages, there were about 180 towers in Bologna, which gave the city a special look. They were built by wealthy families, among whom there was a competition: whoever builds a tower above the others is worthy of the highest honor. Now there are about 12 towers left.

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6th place - Genoa

Population: 594 254
Region: Liguria
Square: 243.56 km2

Genoa is the capital of the province of the same name and the region of Liguria. This port city is located on the Ligurian Sea and its entire history is connected with navigation and trade. The local harbor is still one of the most important in Italy, as well as one of the largest in Europe. The main attraction of the Genoese port is its lighthouse, known as "la Lanterna". In addition, Genoa is a center of heavy industry and shipbuilding, and is part of the main industrial triangle of Italy, which also includes Milan and Turin. Today, Genoa is a city of universities, as well as a tourist and scientific center. In 2004, she was proclaimed European capital culture.

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5th place - Palermo

Population: 676 527
Region: Sicily
Square: 160.59 km2

Palermo is located on the coast Tyrrhenian Sea, but the city is a heavily used port, so locals and tourists prefer to go to the beaches in the area where the water is cleaner. However, if you walk along Vittorio Manuele Street to the City Gate of Happiness, you can admire a very beautiful view of the sea surface and just sit on the shore, enjoying the light breeze. In addition, Palermo has many gardens and parks, among the most famous are Botanical Garden with a collection of 12,000 species of plants, Garibaldi Park with ancient fig trees that amaze with their powerful roots and Villa Giulia, decorated with fountains and lush flower beds.

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4th place - Turin

Population: 899 291
Region: Piedmont
Square: 130.01 km2

T urin - Big City in the northwest of Italy, business and Cultural Center Piedmont region and the whole north of Italy. The city is located on the Padana Plain at the foot of Western Alps. Turin is an important transport hub, the second industrial center of the country after Milan. Heavy industry is especially developed here, in particular, the automotive industry, the production of marine engines, aircraft manufacturing, etc. The traditional sectors of the Turin economy - textile, food, clothing, etc. - also retain their importance. Turin is one of the most famous European cities, it is often called "Capital of the European Baroque", "capital of the Alps", "automobile capital of Italy" And "cradle of Italian independence".

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3rd place - Naples

Population: 989 598
Region: Campaign
Square: 117.27 km2

Neapolis has always been and remains a controversial city - in the capital of the Campania region there is a place for outright poverty and fabulous wealth, garbage heaps and priceless historical monuments included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Naples is the largest industrial center in Italy. Metallurgy, mechanical engineering, shipbuilding, oil refining and petrochemical, light and food industries are developed here. This major port(cargo turnover over 10 million tons per year).

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2nd place - Milan

Population: 1 331 586
Region: Lombardy
Square: 181.76 km2

Milan is the second largest city in Italy, the largest industrial, financial, commercial and transport hub of the country, an important cultural center, as well as a legislator of European fashion. The city is famous for its museums, art galleries, theaters, architectural monuments, educational institutions(University, Conservatory, Academy of Arts, etc.). Milan, along with Rome, is one of the ancient cities in Italy. In its place was a Celtic settlement. Almost all conquerors European history- Gauls, Romans, Goths, Lombards and Franks, as well as a whole series of rulers from France, Spain and Austria, took part in the administration of Milan at one time.

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1st place - Rome

Population: 2 870 493
Region: Lazio
Square: 1287.36 km 2

Rome is the capital of Italy and the region of Lazio, the largest in the country and one of the most visited cities in the world. The city stands on 12 hills, and its center is Old city- on the seven hills. The Tiber River flows through the city from north to south. For hundreds of years, Rome was a small settlement in the center peninsula. However, the favorable location and aggressive policy, together with a number of innovations in military affairs, gradually brought him to a leading position, first in the region, and then in the region. The Roman state reached its heyday under the emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. e., when military and economic power was combined with peace within the empire. The population of Rome exceeded 1 million people.

Rome is a unique city, within its boundaries there is a whole independent state - the Vatican. It is the main center of Catholicism with an abundance Catholic churches, created by the best Italian architects and decorated with the works of great Italian artists and sculptors. Masterpieces of Italian painting and sculpture are collected in the Vatican, Capitoline Museums, in the Borghese Gallery, Lateran. Many archaeological finds are presented in the Roman national museum Museum of the Villa Giulia. Works of art of the XX century. collected at the National Gallery of Modern Art and the National Printing Office.

Today, being a symbol of the ancient empire and modern republic Italy, Rome combines the grandeur of the past millennia and the romance of the present. It is a city of chic restaurants in spacious squares and shady summer cafes in the cramped, narrow streets of the old quarters.