By Olivia
Italy is comprised of four main geographical regions. These regions consist of: Northern Italy, Central Italy, Southern Italy and the Islands. The country of Italy has a 600 mile long peninsula that reaches out into the Mediterranean Sea with islands to the south and west of the peninsula. Italy is a very mountainous country. The Apennine Mountains run north to south down the peninsula linking the Alps in Northern Italy to Mt. Etna and Monte Soro all the way down in the island of Sicily.
Northern Italy is known for its rolling hills, vast valleys and the Alps mountain range. This region of Italy is used mostly for agriculture. The biggest valley in Italy, Po Valley, can be found here. Po Valley is one of the most productive agriculture regions in Italy with it producing 40% of Italy's food supply. However, Northern Italy is not just for farmers, many major cities were established here. Some of these cities are: Milan, Turin, Genoa, and Bologna. A large percent of Italy's population resides in this part of the country. Also, with the Alps stretching across the top of this region, it is a popular place for tourists.
Central Italy
Central Italy is known as the "Heartland of Italy". Many popular cities in Italy can be found here. Some of these cities include: Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Italy's capital city, Rome. Although there are many cities in Central Italy and it is greatly populated, it doesn't mean that the land isn't rugged. With the Apennines Mountain range running down this region of Italy, its land can be quite rocky and jagged, with a few plains. Not many plains can be found in Central Italy but those that are in Central Italy are considered the most fertile pieces of land in all of Italy. This is because Central Italy gets a good amount of rainfall each year. These plains produce crops that are enjoyed by many. The most exciting things that can be found here are the beautiful hilltop villages, exquisite wine, fine food, and some of the most iconic pieces of architecture in Italy, such as: The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Trevi Fountain and The Colosseum.
Southern Italy
Southern Italy is a very populated region of Italy. This region attracts millions of tourists year round for its warm sandy beaches and whimsical coast. The stunning coast of Southern Italy ushers many people to make it a very popular vacation spot. The southern region of Italy is very dependent on tourism and does not manufacture tons of goods. However, some of the most popular goods that Southern Italy is known for are their olive oil, lemons, and limoncello, which ar enjoyed around the world. This region of Italy has many popular cities located in it. Some of theses cities include: Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Paestum, and Sassi di Matera. The architecture, food, music, and art in these cities attracts many tourists every year, making Southern Italy a popular vacation spot.
The Islands
The Islands of Italy consist of: Sicily, Sardinia, and the Aeolian Islands. Sicily is biggest Island and it is only about 2 miles out from the mainland of Italy. Sicily is known for its vineyards, island beaches, well preserved archaeological sites and active volcanoes. The Island of Sicily is by far the most visited out of the other Italian islands with a whopping 3.11 million tourists visiting it each year. The Island Sardinia is the second largest Italian island and is about 116 miles away from the coast of mainland Italy. Sardinia is known for its crystal clear waters and wondrous rock formations. Sardinia is the second most visited Italian island with an average of 2.9 million tourists visiting the island each year. The Aeolian Islands are the smallest Italian islands and are located 50 miles away from the island, Sicily. These seven miniature islands are known for their hiking trails, volcanic activity and tranquil beaches. The Aeolian islands have the least amount of tourist visitation rates, averaging a little more than 200,000 tourists each year.