Italy, a country renowned for its rich history, culture, and exquisite cuisine, is a treasure trove of fascinating stories and interesting facts. From the hills of Tuscany to the historic streets of Rome, Italy captivates the hearts of travelers and locals alike. Here are 20 fun facts about Italy that will spark your curiosity and ignite your desire to travel to this country.
1. Italy has 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Italy boasts an impressive 58 World Heritage Sites, more than any other country in the world. These include cultural monuments like the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the entire historic centers of cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice. The abundance of art, architecture, and archaeological sites makes Italy a living museum.
2. It is the cradle of the Renaissance
The Renaissance—a period that saw renewed interest in the arts, science, and humanities—began in Italy in the 14th century. Florence is commonly known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, where influential artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo created some of their most memorable works.
3. Vatican City is a country within a country
Vatican City, located in the heart of Rome, is the smallest sovereign state in the world, both in area and population. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. Despite its small size, the Vatican houses some of the world's most famous works of art, including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.
4. Venice has 150 canals and more than 400 bridges
Venice, one of Italy's most iconic cities, is famous for its network of canals, which serve as the main means of transportation. The city is built on an archipelago of 118 islands formed by approximately 150 canals in a shallow lagoon, connected by more than 400 bridges.
5. An Italian invented the first glasses
The first spectacles were made in Italy at the end of the 13th century. An Italian named Salvino D'Armate is credited with inventing the first portable spectacles. The oldest surviving pair, dating from around 1400, can be found in the Correr Museum in Venice.
6. Italian is the language of Western classical music
Musical notation and many of the terms used in music today, such as opera, sonata, and concerto, are Italian. Italy's influence on the development of music since the medieval period is unparalleled, making it a fundamental pillar of Western classical music.
7. Mount Etna is the most active volcano in Europe
Known locally as 'Mongibello,' Mount Etna is Europe's largest and most active volcano. It erupts approximately 200 times a year, a figure that continues to increase annually. Its persistent activity is a key distinguishing feature. Its eruptions are frequent but generally nonexplosive, emitting rivers of lava that slowly descend its slopes.
8. Italy is home to the oldest university in Europe
The University of Bologna , founded in 1088, is the oldest continuously operating university in Europe. Its founding paved the way for the development and expansion of higher education throughout the continent.
9. An Italian invented the espresso machine
Italians are renowned for the development of the espresso machine. Angelo Moriondo of Turin patented the first device for making instant coffee drinks in 1884. Today, Italy has more than 160,000 coffee bars, and the authentic Italian espresso culture is designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
10. There are more than 350 types of pasta
Although pasta dates back to ancient and medieval times, it became popular in Italy during the 13th century. With over 350 different pasta shapes, the country takes this food very seriously, considering it more than just sustenance: it's a culinary art form with precise craftsmanship.
11. Italy has one of the longest-lived populations in the world
Italians have one of the highest life expectancies in the world, often attributed to their Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fresh vegetables, olive oil, fish, and wine. The village of Acciaroli is especially famous for its centenarians and has been the subject of numerous studies.
12. Italians use more than 250 hand gestures
Italians are famous for their expressive hand gestures. There are over 250 gestures that Italians use in everyday conversation. These gestures are so unique and intrinsic to Italian communication that they have been the subject of countless studies.
13. Gelato was invented in Florence during the Renaissance
In the 16th century, Bernardo Buontalenti, a Florentine architect and artist, is credited with creating the precursor to modern gelato during a banquet held by the Medici family. Combining milk, sugar, and fruit flavors, Buontalenti's creation delighted the palates of the Renaissance nobility and sparked a culinary revolution.
14. The first pizzeria opened in Italy in 1830
Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba opened its doors in Naples in 1830. Founded by Raffaele Esposito, this historic establishment set the standard for Neapolitan-style pizza that has since gained worldwide fame.
15. Rome is known as the "city of fountains"
Rome is home to more than 2,000 public fountains, more than any other city in the world. The most notable, the Trevi Fountain, attracts millions of visitors each year.
16. Tourists throw €3,000 into the Trevi Fountain every day
According to legend, throwing a coin into the fountain ensures a return to Rome, a superstition that has captured the imagination of countless tourists over the years.
17. An Italian invented the piano
Bartolomeo Cristofori, an Italian instrument maker, is credited with inventing the piano in the early 18th century. His innovative design laid the groundwork for one of the most beloved musical instruments in the world.
18. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the only leaning tower in Italy.
The bell tower of the church of San Martino dei Battuti in Venice, though not as well-known, also has a distinctive tilt. Located in the historic Cannaregio district, this 15th-century bell tower leans slightly, adding charm to Venice's captivating skyline.
19. The Colosseum in Rome is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built
Completed in 80 AD under Emperor Vespasian, this architectural marvel could hold up to 80,000 spectators who gathered to witness gladiatorial combats, mock naval battles, and other public spectacles.
20. The Italian flag is known as "Il Tricolore"
The Italian flag, also known as the 'Tricolore', has its origins in the French flag brought to Italy by Napoleon in 1797. The green, white, and red colors represent hope, faith, and charity, respectively, and are a symbol of the country's national identity.
What do you need to travel to Italy?
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Schengen Visa (for citizens of countries that require it)
- Travel medical insurance with coverage within the Schengen area
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel itinerary
- Sufficient financial resources for the stay
What are the requirements for traveling to Italy?
- Meet the entry requirements to the Schengen area
- Complete the passenger locator form (if required)
- Keep travel documents handy
- Respect local rules and regulations
- Have confirmed accommodation reservations
What to bring on a trip to Italy?
- Comfortable and season-appropriate clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- European power adapter
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack for excursions
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Important documents in physical and digital format
What is the best time to visit Italy?
The best time to visit Italy is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. Summer (June-August) is the peak season, with more tourists and high temperatures. Winter (November-March) is quieter and cheaper, but some tourist sites may have reduced hours.
How can I stay connected during my trip to Italy?
The best way to stay connected in Italy is to use an Olysim eSIM , which allows you to:
- Activate mobile data instantly
- Avoid high roaming costs
- Keep your current number for calls and messages
- Connect to the main Italian mobile networks
- Manage your data plan easily from the app