Location: Southern Europe
Capital: Rome
Population: approx. 58.1 million
Total area: 301,230 km²
Size comparison: about 15× larger than Slovenia
Italy is a Mediterranean peninsula shaped by the Alps, the Apennines, and extensive coastlines. Its diverse landscape includes mountains, volcanoes, plains, and islands.
Northern Italy is dominated by the Alps, with Monte Bianco (4,748 m) as the highest peak. They form a natural border and source of rivers.
This mountain chain runs the length of the peninsula, forming Italy’s backbone.
Italy is home to active volcanoes: Vesuvius, Etna, and Stromboli.
The Po is the longest river, while Garda, Como, and Maggiore are the most famous lakes.
Northern Italy has a continental climate, the interior is mountainous, and the coasts enjoy a Mediterranean climate.
