Italy
Italy is a country located in the Mediterranean Sea, in southern Europe. A republic with Rome as its capital and largest city, the country shares land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, and the enclaved microstates of Vatican City and San Marino. Italy has a territorial enclave in Switzerland (Campione) and a maritime exclave in Tunisian waters (Lampedusa).
Italy has the world's eighth-largest economy. It ranks very highly in life expectancy, quality of life, healthcare, and education. The country is a founding and leading member of the European Union and a member of numerous international institutions, including the United Nations, NATO, the G20, and the Council of Europe.
It has long been a global centre of art, music, literature, philosophy, science and technology, and fashion. As a reflection of its cultural wealth, Italy has the world's largest number of World Heritage Sites, and is the fifth-most visited country.
Founding Date
1861
Type
Geopolitical, Country
Alternative Names
Italian: Repubblica Italiana
Demonym
Italian
Government System
Democracy, Parliamentary
Neighboring Nations