1
Pasta
Food is one of the main reasons Italy is known abroad and the country’s obsession with pasta is well documented.
Italians consume 23Kg of pasta each every year and pasta comes, literally, in all shapes and sizes: there are over 300 types of pasta shapes in Italy alone!
Pasta dishes differ from one region to another but some have risen to international fame.
2
Pizza
Another mention of an obvious but very Italian specialty no list of things that make Italy famous can skip: pizza!
Pizza as we know it today, with tomato sauce and mozzarella, was born in Naples. In 1889, chef Raffaele Esposito made pizza for Queen Margherita of Savoy.
In her, in her honor, he made it tricolor like the Italian flag by using tomato sauce (red), mozzarella (white) and basil leaves (green) and called it Margherita.
3
Italian Fashion Houses
Italy is known for fashion houses and designer brands.
Some of the most famous are Valentino, Gucci, Prada, Armani, Versace, Dolce e Gabbana but the list goes on.
You can admire the creations of Italian fashion designers in the many designer shopping streets in Italy and at fashion events such as Milan Fashion Week, one of the most important fashion events.
4
Italian Luxury Cars
Italy is famous for sports cars, and some of the most luxurious car makers in the world are from Italy.
Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati are among the best known and there are museums dedicated to their history and most beloved models.
5
Opera
Italy has a strong musical tradition and is famous, especially for bel canto or opera.
Opera is traditional in Italy and many renowned opera composers are Italian: Puccini, Verdi, Rossini are only some of the most famous names.
Noticeable Opera Houses and theaters are also in Italy: La Scala in Milan and arena di Verona are two of the most famous.
Many operas are written in Italian, even if set in other locations, such as la Boheme or Madame Butterfly.
6
The leaning tower of Pisa
The leaning tower of Pisa is one of the most iconic and famous landmarks in Italy and one that graces the covers of many articles about Italy as a typically Italian sight.
Indeed, the tower of Pisa is unique, and while it is very touristy, it is part of an architectural complex so beautiful, it is often worth facing the crowds for.