Italy

Italy's history is a tapestry woven over millennia, starting with ancient civilizations like the Etruscans and the rise of Rome, which grew from a small settlement into a mighty empire known for its law, engineering, and cultural influence across Europe. The fall of Rome ushered in the Middle Ages, followed by the vibrant Renaissance period that birthed masterpieces by da Vinci, Michelangelo, and others. The Age of Exploration saw Italian city-states dominate Mediterranean trade, but Italy itself remained fragmented until the 19th-century Risorgimento movement achieved unification. Today, Italy stands as a beacon of art, fashion, and gastronomy, drawing millions every year to cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice to experience its rich cultural heritage firsthand.