Well into the nineteenth century, the important Austrian statesman Klemens von Metternich called Italy no more than a mere geographical expression. Indeed, Italy is a very modern country in terms of political unity, and its 20 regions did not unite under a central government until 1870.
It does not matter. This has not prevented conquerors, scholars, artists, saints and curious travelers from being attracted to the region for centuries.
From ancient times they traveled to Italy, sometimes even risking their lives through turbulent seas and stormy mountains. Some people were fascinated, like the British writer E. M. Forster, who wrote that the Italians were even more wonderful than their land.
Discover Italy.
Others were attracted by artistic treasures, ranging from the Greek ruins of Sicily to the legacy of geniuses such as Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo. Others were attracted to its landscapes: hills dotted with cypresses, coves, cut-off peaks, paths on precipices, beaches and picturesque villages.Abruzzo - Maiella: mountains, hermitages, and D'Annunzio.
North.
Read also: Italian biodiversity, the reasons for biological wealth and the causes of its reduction.
Center.
Discover Italia: off the beaten path, wine and food itineraries and naturalistic routes. Click to Tweet