9781422278024

ITALY AT A GLANCE

Flag of Italy Italy is dominated by two mountain ranges: the Alps and the Apennines, which

stripe replaced by a green one, inspired by the shirts of the Milan militia. It has been said, however, that the green was chosen by Napoleon as a personal preference when he invaded Italy in the late eighteenth century.

are separated by fertile plains. The islands of Sardinia and Sicily being also part of Italy. The north and south of Italy are very different in terms of culture and wealth, the north being more prosperous than the south. Italy became a united country in 1861 when King Victor Emmanuel was proclaimed ruler. The flag dates back to Napoleonic times and was derived from the French tricolor, but with the blue

ABOVE: Italian towns and cities are famous for their outdoor cafés and restaurants. Italy’s favorable climate means that diners can eat outside for many months of the year.

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