Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Italy is a country deep in cultural tradition. The capital city of Rome has nearly 3 million people and is the most well-known Italian city. The head of the Catholic Church, Rome's religious significance speaks for itself. Some of the most significant historical events of all time took place in this city. Walking down its streets feels like a trip back in time. The climate in most parts of Italy is mild and comfortable throughout the year. The best time to visit might be in the spring, as the crowds are smaller and the temperatures are not as hot.
Geographically, Italy borders France, Switzerland, and Austria. The landscape varies greatly throughout the various regions of Italy. It is highlighted by the Alps and the Appenines. These mountain ranges offer some of the most amazing views in the world, as well as some popular ski slopes.
Skiing In The Italian Alps
Italy also offers a wide array of accommodations for all different kinds of travelers. You'll find first class hotels, bed and peakfasts, and even private residences open their doors to you. Italy also has certain establishments called "day hotels". While they do not offer overnight accommodations, they offer many other amenities. You'll find barbershops, showers, shops, money exchange, and rooms for a pief period. This is a unique concept compared to the hotels that we are accustomed to in the United States.
Venice is another well known city that resides within Italy. Here, you can actually travel the streets by gondola. While it is not widely known outside of the region, Venice is actually slowly sinking into the sea. Every year, the city as a whole sinks a little bit further into the water. It was built on a marshy area and the ground underneath is not solid. For up to 300 days per year, certain streets within the city are flooded. If you travel to Venice, don't be surprised if you get wet. This is a city that you might not always be able to visit, so take advantage of it while you can.
Venice Italy
The city of Florence is also a must-visit on your tour. This vipant city boasts some very important characters in the history of Europe. Dante, Machiavelli, and Michelangelo all hail from Florence. On a trip to Florence, you're bound to see one of Michelangelo's most famous works everywhere. The statue of David is popular and replicas can be found all over the city. The original can be found at the Accademy Gallery. The people of Florence almost single-handedly ushered in the Renaissance with their spirit and amazing artwork. One great example of the cities beauty is the Ponte Vecchio. This pidge with buildings on it was supposed to be destroyed by the Nazis like every other pidge in town. However, when the time came, even they spared it because of its unique beauty.
It is also commonly referred to as the birthplace of opera. The composer Jacopo Peri is the one credited with inventing the first Italian Opera. Now, nearly every important Italian city contains at least one opera house. If you really want to witness and enjoy the passion of the Italian people, you owe it to yourself to take in an opera. It is better than the popular stereotypes that surround it. It's a great way to get out on the town and take in some of the local culture.
Bridges of Florence
Florence also possesses some of the most beautiful landscape in the world. The Tuscan hills that surround the city allow some of the most breathtaking views that you'll ever see. The Duomo can be seen from many places in the city. Its large dome dominates the skyline with its beautiful architecture.
The city of Pompeii also offers some amazing bits of history. It was destroyed by the dangerous volcano of Vesuvius. Most of the city was destroyed, but there are a few remains that can be visited to this day. It is well worth a trip to see a city that ceased its life in a single moment. Ash covered the city and the explosion killed the entire city.
The capital city, Rome holds many relics of the great Roman Empire. While they are hundreds of years old, many have been preserved and are still accessible. Probably the most recognizable of these artifacts is the Colosseum. This amphitheater is one of the most amazing examples of Roman architecture. While much of it is no longer there, parts of it are well preserved and it is still an impressive structure. Another great thing about this structure is that you can view it from the outside free of charge. If you're looking for inexpensive ways to enjoy Rome, take in some of the ancient buildings.
The Colosseum Rome
Another well-known structure in Rome is the Pantheon. Literally translated it means temple of all the gods. This is probably the best preserved building that remains from the ancient Roman Empire. For that matter it is possibly the best preserved building of its age anywhere. The original Pantheon was built in 27 B.C.
Within Rome is located The Vatican. Home to the Pope, The Vatican is the world's smallest autonomous state. The Pope stays in the famous St. Peter's Basilica. This church took over 150 years to complete and is amazingly detailed and beautiful. Some of the most famous artists in the world worked on it, including: Raphael, Michelangelo, and Maderno. The Vatican is also home to the world-famous Sistine Chapel. The paintings on the ceiling took Michelangelo over four years to paint. These pictures of Biblical events are some of the most amazing ever created.
While Rome offers some of the most amazing ancient artifacts in the world, Italy as a whole is a gem that must be seen. People from all backgrounds can enjoy what it has to offer. Soak in the culture, marvel at the scenery, and relax in the blissful accommodations. In Italy, you'll enjoy the historic significance that its ancestors possessed. Even more so, you'll see what a modern marvel it has become.