The Italian Republic occupies the long peninsular area in Europe. Its shape resembles a boot extending from the Alps into the Mediterranean Sea. The islands of Sicily, Sardinia, Elba and Capri in the Mediterranean belong to Italy. The total area of the country is 3,01,278 Sq. Km. and the total population is nearly 57 million. The capital of the country is Rome. Other important cities are Milan Naples, Turin and Florence.

The chief crops are grapes, wheat, sugarbeet, vegetables and fruits. Being one among the highly industrialised countries in the world, Italy’s products include steel, cement, chemicals, automobiles, textiles, and electrical, mechanical and electronic gadgets. Italy is considered as one among the largest jewellery makers. The Italians only invented the Piano and the present system of musical notation. Italians have contributed a lot to the world of cinema. To name a few among the contributors are Marcello Mastroianni, Anna Magnani, Gina Lollobrigida, Sophia Loren and directors Luchino Visconti, Roberto Rossellini, Frederico Fellini, Michelangelo Antonioni and Bernardo Bertolucci.

Italy's climate varies from north to south and from lowland to mountain top. Winters are long and severe in the Alps, with snow falling as early as mid-September. The northern regions experience chilly winters and hot summers, while conditions become milder as you head south. During spring, April & May and autumn, October & November seasons, the scenery is beautiful, the temperatures are pleasant and a trip to Italy will be great.