Ítalía

Ítalía, officially known as the Italian Republic (Italian: *Repubblica Italiana*), is a unitary parliamentary republic located in Southern Europe. It shares open land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, and the microstates of Vatican City and San Marino. The country also has maritime borders with Malta, Tunisia, Libya, Croatia, Greece, Albania, and France. Ítalía is situated on the Italian Peninsula, which extends into the central Mediterranean Sea, along with the two largest islands in the Mediterranean, Sicily and Sardinia.

The country is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant contributions to global civilization. Ítalía was the birthplace of the Roman Empire, which dominated much of Europe and the Mediterranean for centuries. Later, it became a major center of the Renaissance, producing influential figures in art, science, and philosophy. Today, Ítalía is a founding member of the European Union, the Eurozone, the United Nations, NATO, the OECD, and the G7.

Geographically, Ítalía is diverse, featuring the Alps in the north, the Apennine Mountains running down its spine, and a long coastline along the Tyrrhenian, Adriatic, and Ionian Seas. The capital and largest city, Roma (Rome), is a global cultural and historical hub, while other major cities include Milano (Milan), Napoli (Naples), Torino (Turin), and Palermo.

Ítalía has a highly developed economy, ranking as the eighth-largest in the world by nominal GDP and the third-largest in the European Union. The country is a leader in manufacturing, particularly in automotive, fashion, and luxury goods. Agriculture and tourism are also key sectors, with Ítalía being one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

The official language is Italian, spoken by the majority of the population, though regional languages such as Sicilian, Sardinian, and Ladin are also recognized. Ítalía has a diverse cultural landscape, with traditions ranging from opera and classical music to contemporary cinema and cuisine, which is renowned worldwide for its regional dishes like pizza, pasta, and gelato. The country is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic center of Roma, the canals of Venezia (Venice), and the ancient ruins of Pompeii.