Italiano Facts

• Italy is said to have more masterpieces per square mile than any other country in the world.
• Over 50 million tourists a year visit Italy. Tourism is vital to Italy’s economy and provides nearly 63% of Italy’s national income.
• The name Italy comes from the word italia, meaning “calf land,” perhaps because the bull was a symbol of the Southern Italian tribes
• Italy is among the world’s leaders of the fashion industry. In the 1950s, Italian designers such as Nino Cerruti and Valentino led the world in creating stylish fashions. Additionally, Armani, Versace, Gucci, and Prada have become internationally recognized. Italy is also known for fine sports cars, such as the Ferrari and Lamborghini.
• Italy has three active volcanoes: Vesuvius, Etna, and Stromboli.
• Italy invented the ice cream cone, eyeglasses, cologne, and the typewriter.

from lifeinitaly.com