Your guide to being an expatriate in Italy

Demographics of Italy:

Religion Overview

Italy has a rich history rooted in Christianity, with the majority of the population practicing the Roman Catholic faith. The Vatican City, located in Rome, is the smallest independent state in the world and serves as the spiritual home of the Catholic Church.

Major Religions

Climate

Italy's geographical location and varied topography result in several distinct climate zones, ranging from hot and dry in the south to cold and mountainous in the north. The coastal areas offer a mild Mediterranean climate, while the inland regions are drier with hot summers and cold winters.

Economy Overview

Italy is one of the world's top ten economies, with a thriving and diverse industry base that includes manufacturing, services, agriculture, and tourism. The country is home to several multinational companies, including Enel, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), and Banco Santander.

Key Industries

• Tourism
• Manufacturing (particularly machinery, textiles, and food products)
• Services (including finance, retail, and technology)

Major Companies

• Enel S.p.A.
• Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.
• Banco Santander S.A.
• Telecom Italia S.p.A.
• Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A.

Culture and Language Overview

Italian culture is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and art, providing a rich tapestry of history and heritage. The country is famous for its cuisine, which features fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Italian is the official language, with many regional dialects still spoken in various regions.

Cultural Highlights

• Take a culinary tour through the country's delectable cuisine, from pasta and pizza to wine and cheese.
• Experience the ancient Roman history and heritage through the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Forum.
• Marvel at the artwork and architecture of renowned Italian masters, such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.
• Join the locals for traditional festivals and fairs, such as the Lemon Festival in Sorrento or the Siena Palio horse race.

Geography and Landmarks Overview

Italy's varied terrain includes rugged mountains, miles of sparkling coastline, and rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves. The country's landmarks and attractions are vast and diverse, from ancient ruins like Pompeii and Herculaneum to shimmering coastal resorts like the Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

Notable Landmarks

• The Colosseum, Rome
• St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City
• The Leaning Tower of Pisa
• The Amalfi Coast
• The Alps (the highest mountain range in Europe)

National Holidays

• New Year's Day (1 January)
• Epiphany (6 January)
• Liberation Day (25 April)
• Labor Day (1 May)
• Republic Day (2 June)
• Assumption of the Virgen Mary (15 August)
• All Saints' Day (1 November)
• Immaculate Conception (8 December)
• Christmas Day (25 December)

Political Stability

Italy is a constitutional republic with a semi-presidential system of government. The country has experienced periods of political instability in recent years, with a change in prime ministers in 2019 and occasional protests related to issues such as immigration and economic reform. However, the country continues to be a vocal and influential member of the European Union and other international organizations.