Italian Golden Places

Italy is a country that couldn't be described in a few words and even a few sentences, but the definition "country-museum" partly describes what it is all about. From north to south of the country the nature, climate and even Italian language changes and the only thing remains the same - the plenty of interesting sites of the great cultural and historical value. Italian government takes care about its heritage and almost all the ancient cathedrals, palaces, monasteries, churches and other masterpieces have been restored (if possible) and are kept in good condition.

When you plan a visit to Italy there is a temptation to see all its attractions during one trip, but the truth is, that every corner of this country is worth a single visit and even then you can't be sure that you have seen enough to say you know everything about the place.

The capital of Italy - Rome - lies on seven hills and its foundation is covered with legends. One of them states that this city was built by two brothers - Romul and Rem who were brought up by a she-wolf. Rome is the largest Italian city and the most visited one. Crowds of tourist fill the streets of "Eternal city" all day long. What are they seeking for? Some of them are trying to touch the antiquity, the times of emperors and gladiators; others prefer to admire the masterpieces of Renaissance. Nowadays a new sort of tourists has appeared - they are coming for shopping. Rome has something to offer them too. And - let's not forget that Rome is a home to Vatican - Mecca for Catholics from all over the world. So, the short list of the most important places in Rome will look like this - Forum, Coliseum to learn the early times of Rome; Galleria Borghese, containing works by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio, Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescos and famous squares and fountains - Fontana di Trevi, Piazza Navona, Piazza della Rotonda (Pantheon), Piazza di Spagna to see the Renaissance of Rome and Vatican - a place no one should miss when coming to Rome.

The second largest Italian city, a tourist destination competing with Rome in terms of the amount of the visitors is Milan. The capital of Lombardi province, it's considered to be one of the most prosperous cities in Italy. It's almost as old as Rome and also has a lot to be seen. The symbol of Milan is Duomo, Milan famous Cathedral. However, by the end of XX century Milan has become one of the world fashion capitals and along with Paris, New York and London is one of the best and most popular shopping destinations.

When we talk about Italy, the most romantic destination is, without any doubt, Venice. The city of canals and gondolas attracts millions of enamored couples. The city makes living out of tourism. It's not a big city with a population of about 60 000, and it's becoming only smaller. The matter is that the city is slowly going down. So, those who wish to make one of the most memorable voyages in their life have to hurry up!

Florence is the heart of Toscana province - the land of vineyards, picturesque landscapes and perfect climate. Florence boasts the most of the Renaissance attractions of the region. The city's major monument is the imposing dome of the Duomo dedicated to Santa Maria del Fiore. There is an opinion that approximately one third of the greatest artists of the II millennium (among them are Michelangelo, Boticcelli, Leonardo da Vinci) lived or worked in Florence and their works still adorn the city and its numerous museums. The city is also known as the motherland of Dante - the greatest poet of his time, whose "Divine Comedy" is still considered unsurpassed.