Insieme in italiano: Elementary Italian 1 & 2

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Italy is a relatively young nation. The states of the peninsula and the islands of Sicilia and Sardegna were united under King Victor Emmanuel II and Italy became a nation-state in 1861. In 1870, the final phases of unification took place when Rome (and Lazio) were annexed to the Kingdom of Italy.

Italy became a Republic after World War II, on June 2, 1946. On this date, the Italian women voted for the first time for the Institutional referendum that abolished the Monarchy and established a Republic. 21 women were also elected for the Constituent Assembly and took part in the drafting of the Italian Constitution.

The capital of Italy is Roma, one of the oldest of the world’s cities. Other major cities are Milano, an important industrial and fashion center; Bologna, a city famous for its university, its food, and its red roofs and historical leftist politics - indeed, it is also called "la dotta, la grassa e la rossa;" Venezia, a unique tourist destination built on more that 100 small islands and famous for its canals and carnival celebrations; and Napoli, a city rich with culture and stunning natural views. 

There are 20 regions in Italy and within the peninsula, there are two independent states: The Vatican, the capital of the Roman Catholic Church, and the Republic of San Marino, whose historical city center sits atop Mount Titano, between the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Marche.

Each Italian region reflects the many foreign dominations and historical events that over the centuries shaped Italy as a country. Italians are still very attached to their own cities and regions, and are very proud of their unique cultural traditions.

Italy is also a founding member of the European Union, and was one of the first countries to adopt the Euro currency in 1999.