12 Fascinating Facts About Italy That Will Inspire Your Next Holiday
BY Travel Department Partnership
1st Nov 2023 Travel Guides
4 min read
Italy, a land with a rich, diverse, and colourful history, never ceases to amaze with its intriguing past. Every visit to this enchanting country reveals something new, interesting and exciting.
Here are 12 captivating facts about this fantastic destination that might just inspire you to plan your next holiday in Italy.
1. Italy Boasts the Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Italy is home to a staggering number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With over 50 of these prestigious designations, it surpasses all other countries in the world. Some of these iconic sites include the historic centre of Florence, the enchanting canals of Venice, the unique Trulli houses of Alberobello, the awe-inspiring Colosseum in Rome, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.
2. Limone sul Garda's Magical Lemons
Limone sul Garda, known for its lemon orchards and mesmerising vistas, hides a fascinating genetic secret. In 1979, it was discovered that this charming town had an unusually high number of centenarians among its thousand residents. Further research unveiled a rare protein in their blood that wards off heart disease and promotes longevity, possibly owing to their lemon-rich diet.
3. Trevi Fountain's Daily Treasure
Every day, visitors throw over €3,000 into Rome's spectacular Trevi Fountain. Located in the heart of the historic centre, this masterpiece, created by Nicola Salvi in 1762, is a symbol of good luck. Tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain ensures your return to the Eternal City.
4. Beware of Sea Monsters in Sicily
As you sail through the Messina strait between Sicily and Calabria, be cautious of Scylla and Charybdis, the legendary sea monsters from Greek mythology. These alluring nymphs transform into hideous creatures with six heads, multiple mouths, and glowing eyes. Keep an eye out if you embark on a boat trip in this mythical region!
5. Pompeii's Rediscovery in the 18th Century
Pompeii, buried under five metres of ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, remained hidden until its rediscovery in the 18th century. This natural time capsule offers a glimpse into ancient Roman life. Approximately 2.5 million tourists visit Pompeii annually, making it a highlight of any Sorrento holiday.
6. Sorrento's Literary Legacy
Sorrento is the birthplace of Torquato Tasso, Europe's most celebrated poet until the 20th century. His renowned work, "La Gerusalemme Liberata," narrates a mythical battle between Christians and Muslims for Jerusalem. Tragically, Tasso passed away just days before his coronation as King of the Poets by the Pope.
7. Pinocchio's Italian Origins
The beloved story of Pinocchio, often associated with Disney, actually originated in Florence with Carlo Collodi's 1826 tale. This book, written in Tuscan dialect, later evolved into modern Italian during the Renaissance, when Tuscany was a vital trading hub for the entire country.
8. Lake Garda's Historic Battles
Lake Garda's serene beauty conceals a turbulent past, marked by famous battles. Notable conflicts include the Battle of Lake Benacus in 268, where Romans defeated the Alamanni, the Battle of Rivoli in 1797, when Napoleon's forces clashed with the Austrians, and the Battle of Solferino in 1859, a pivotal moment during the Italian Risorgimento, which led to the formation of the Red Cross by the Geneva Convention.
9. Italy and the Second world War
Italy endured a fascist dictatorship for two decades under Benito Mussolini, or "Il Duce," from 1922 until his demise in 1945. Mussolini and his mistress met their fate in Dongo, captured by Allied forces and executed near Mezzegra while attempting to flee from Como to the Swiss Alps.
10. Sicily's Distinct Language
Upon repeated visits to Italy, you may notice the language variation in Sicily. The majority of Sicilian residents (70%) speak Sicilian, a distinct language influenced by Greek, Latin, Spanish, Italian, and French, reflecting the island's diverse history.
11. Lake Como's Celebrity Allure
Lake Como, a favourite holiday destination for the Roman elite during the Roman Empire, still attracts Hollywood's most famous faces. Notably, Pliny the Younger, an imperial magistrate, built two luxurious villas, 'Tragedy' and 'Comedy,' along the shores of Lake Como. Today, it remains a serene retreat for stars like George Clooney.
12. Shakespeare's Italian Settings
Surprisingly, 13 of Shakespeare's plays are set in Italy, including Othello, Julius Caesar, Anthony and Cleopatra, The Merchant of Venice, and The Two Gentlemen of Verona. Despite the absence of evidence that the playwright ever visited Italy, Verona, renowned as the setting for Shakespeare's timeless love story, Romeo & Juliet, is a stunning UNESCO city waiting to be explored on a Lake Garda holiday.
Discover Italy's captivating history on guided Italy tours, brought to you with our travel partner, Travel Department. With over 25 years of experience, they offer crafted itineraries that showcase an authentic taste of Italy's culture and reveal its hidden gems. Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Italy and create unforgettable memories on your next holiday!
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