All about Italy
One of the most interesting and stunning countries in Europe, Italy has fascinating history and boasts incredible buildings, famous cuisine and much more. It is famous for many things, from the Colosseum in its capital Rome to iconic dishes like pizza and pasta, artists Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo and being the backdrop to some of the world’s most famous plays, TV shows and films.
Every year, tourists from across the world travel to see the natural beauty and popular attractions Italy has to offer. But how much do you know about Italy?
There is so much we could mention, but here BBC Bitesize takes a closer look at just a number of fun and interesting facts about Italy and its history. You can find out more below.
1. It's where The Roman Empire was born
One of the most famous and greatest civilisations in history, The Roman Empire started in Italy. A huge empire that spanned as far west as northern England and as far east as Syria, The Roman Empire began in 27BC.
Much of what the Ancient Romans invented and built helped shape the modern world that we know today. They developed roads and aqueducts, and introduced innovations such as underfloor heating, concrete and the calendar that inspired our modern system.
2. It's is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Italy has a long and fascinating past – so it’s no surprise that it is home to so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are landmarks or areas recognised for having cultural, historical, scientific, or another form of global significance.
As of 2025, Italy is the country with the most sites in the world, with a total of 61. From the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Roman Colosseum, the Historic Centre of Florence and more, there are so many landmarks and areas in Italy that are famous around the globe.
3. An Italian consumes on average around 23kg of pasta every year
When you think of the many famous dishes of Italy – pasta is bound to spring to mind. There are so many variations and recipes that are famous around the world, far too many to count and include here!
But saying that, how much pasta do Italians eat every year? Figures suggest that on average, an Italian consumes on average around 23kg of pasta each year – that's over 50 pounds!
4. Mount Etna is Europe's most active volcano
Located in Sicily, Mount Etna is a volcano that has been erupting for over 500,000 years, being documented since ancient times. A volcano is an opening in the Earth's crust which sees magma, hot ash and gases escape.
One of the most active volcanoes in the world, it is also one of the tallest in Europe and Europe’s most active. In July 2025, Mount Etna erupted once more with photos showing large plumes of ash rising from the volcano.
5. The Trevi Fountain raises thousands
One of the most photographed fountains in the world, millions of tourists have visited The Trevi Fountain in Rome throughout the generations. Construction began on the baroque masterpiece in 1732 and shows Oceanus, Titan god of the sea, being pulled along by two winged horses.
In film and in real life, it has become custom to stand with your back to the fountain and throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder – ensuring you have a return trip to Rome. On average, €1.5 million worth of coins are thrown into the fountain every year, which is collected and given to charity.
6. It is home to the oldest operating university
Italy is home to many historic landmarks, buildings and institutions. But did you know it is also home to the oldest operating university in the world?
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the world which is still continuously running. The university boasts a rich history and is also known for pioneering legal studies.
7. There are two independent states within its borders
Within Italy’s borders, you will also find two independent states – Vatican City and San Marino. When it comes to Vatican City, it is the smallest country in the world, serving as the capital of the Roman Catholic Church.
San Marino is also one of the smallest countries in the world, which was founded back in 301 AD. If you ever plan a trip to Italy, you could visit both!
8. Pinocchio was first published in an Italian newspaper
A loved character throughout the generations, many will know the story of Pinocchio – a wooden puppet brought to life – from the 1940 Disney animated film and more recently, the 2022 live-action movie. The Disney movies are based on Carlo Collodi’s 1883 novel The Adventures of Pinocchio.
But this was not the first time the character was seen by audiences. Originally, Pinocchio was serialised in Italian children's newspaper, Giornale per i Bambini.
9. The Sistine Chapel took around four years to paint
One of Italy’s most famous sons, Michelangelo was a talented Renaissance artist who created numerous sculptures, paintings and more. One of his most well-known sculptures is the colossal size statue of the biblical figure David in Florence.
But when it comes to paintings, his most iconic work has to be the Sistine Chapel ceiling, which depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis. It is said to have taken around four years to complete.
10. Venice is sinking
One of Italy’s most famous cities, Venice is famous for everything from its canals and gondolas to the stunning St Mark’s Basilica and much more. Venice is known as "La Serenissima", which translates to "very serene."
However, there has long been concern surrounding the city as it is slowly sinking due to various factors and sea levels are also rising. Some experts have predicted that Venice could be underwater by the 2100s.
