Capital: Rome
Population: 58,057,477 (July 2004 est.)
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: UTC/GMT + 1 hour

Italy has an incredibly rich cultural history spanning many centuries. Birthplace of many of the world's greatest artists, it is home to many of its finest art treasures. Visit Florence to see Michelangelo's 'David' and original paintings by Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael and countless others, many contained in beautiful churches. The stunning Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican complex in Rome, home to Pope Benedict XVI.

The ruins of ancient civilizations are in evidence throughout Italy, none more compelling than at Pompeii, overlooked by Mount Vesuvius, which erupted in 79 AD. Venice's Rialto bridge and the Ponte Vecchio in Florence are instantly recognisable as two of Italy's most historic landmarks, not forgetting the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Opera has its roots in the royal entertainments of 16th century Italy, and Milan's Teatro alla Scala is possibly the world's most famous opera house. Unsurprising, then, that some of the finest operatic tenors, including Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli, should be Italians!

Italians have a reputation for effortless style and glamour - Milan remains one of the foremost fashion capitals. Shakespeare chose Verona as the backdrop for his much-loved play 'Romeo and Juliet'.

Food and drink - Italy is known for cheeses (Mozzarella, Gorgonzola), pasta dishes and, of course, pizza. Italy has been producing fine wines like Chianti and Montepulciano for many years.