In the varied landscape of Italy, both on the peninsula itself and on the islands, you can see mountain ranges, snow-capped peaks, extinct and active volcanoes. Such relief has a great impact on the economic and cultural life countries.

Mountain ranges and mountains of Italy

The Italian mountain landscape can be divided into three groups:

  • Alpine,
  • Apennine,
  • insular.

On the map of Italy, the Alps are located on the northern side, where the border with Switzerland and France is located. The Dolomites and Julian Mountains belonging to this system are considered natural and cultural values ​​of global importance and are protected by UNESCO. Now the most big city Italian Alps is Bolzano. Almost 100 thousand people live here.

Mountains of Italy

The mountains in Italy are no different great height, when compared with French or Swiss ones. But they are high enough to remain snowy almost until summer and provide active ski holiday from November to April. Mountain roads here they are more gentle than in Switzerland: the serpentines are not so twisted, the passes are flatter. Most high peak in these places - Monte Leone (3552 m).

On the border with France are the Ligurian Alps, the peak of which is Piedmont Marguareis, which belongs to Italy and France. Its height is 2651 m. This mountain is distinguished by its caves, of which there are many. The Ligurian Alps gradually turn into the Apennine mountains, stretching along the peninsula of the same name from north to south, without rising higher than the Alpine mountains. The most high point The ridge is Mount Corno Grande, which reaches 2912 m above sea level. Its name translates as “big horn”.

Mount Monte Leone is the highest point of the Italian Alps

The Apennines are young mountains, so they continue to actively develop. There are frequent earthquakes here, and volcanic activity continues unabated. The most famous volcano This system is Vesuvius. It last erupted in 1944, killing several people. Another still dormant volcano, Amiata, is located in Tuscany, surrounded by a magnificent landscape. Its activity is manifested in the presence of geysers and thermal springs. They are used by people to generate electricity, as well as for balneological purposes. Amiata is home to the Calderone glacier, the southernmost in Europe.

The Calabrian Apennines, located in the southern part of the peninsula, smoothly merge with the Sicilian mountains. Italian Islands have a volcanic mountain landscape, especially Sicily. Here are active volcanoes Stromboli and the famous Etna, whose height is this moment is 3330 m.

Dolomites: description, attractions, types of recreation

The Dolomites are located in the northeastern part of Italy and have an area of ​​140 km². This territory contains five provinces with many settlements. Most high mountain, about 3000 m, here is Marmolada (province of Trento). On the northern side it is captured by a glacier, and on the western side it forms an almost vertical wall. In clear weather, the peaks of Marmolada can be seen even from Venice, the distance to which is approximately 100 km.

Additional Information! There is an interesting story that tells why this part of the Alpine mountains is called the Dolomites. Until the 18th century mountain system It was called Monte Pallidi (Pale Mountains), due to the large amount of rock that iridescently reflects the sun's rays. The French geologist Deodat de Dolomieu studied this mineral, which was later named dolomite after him. After this, the local Alps began to be called the Dolomites.

The beauty of the mountains themselves is the main natural attraction of these places. The cities located in this area fit harmoniously into the landscape. Each of them has its own characteristics, interesting for tourists: cathedrals, palaces, monuments. The city of Trento is famous for its distinctive architecture, combining features of German Gothic and Italian Renaissance. Such a synthesis of styles can be seen in the example of the Cathedral of St. Virgil, in the Palazzo Pretirio, etc.

Not far from the town of Meran there is a Tyrolean castle built in the 12th century. In addition to its architectural value, it attracts the attention of tourists with its ancient frescoes and marble sculptures. Marienberg Abbey is also an interesting attraction. It is located at an altitude of 1340 m above sea level.

Dolomites

IN winter period people come to ski resorts such as Val di Fassa, Val di Fiemme, Marmolada, etc. Everywhere the most convenient conditions for vacationers have been created: a lift system, cozy hotels, pistes of different levels, schools teaching skiing , skating rinks. The towns and villages where you can stay are very beautiful.

In summer you can come here for a relaxing holiday in the lap of nature. Some cities have thermal baths. Such balneological resorts operate all year round. Lovers excursion tours The Dolomites attract with a wealth of cultural monuments. In fact, in every locality there are wonderful examples of old architecture, decorated with frescoes and sculptures, and memorial sites associated with interesting historical events.

Mountains of the islands of Sardinia and Sicily

The island of Sardinia has a picturesque mountainous landscape, where rock formations alternate with canyons and basins covered with forest. Among them there are unique examples, for example, the only stone forest of primary oaks in Europe, Sas-Baddes-Nurag-Mereu. Not far from it are the Monte Limbara mountains, the peak of which, Balistreri, reaches a height of 1359 meters. Erosion has given the peaks fantastic shapes and carved out many caves.

Note! Oligo mineral springs flow on the slopes of Monte Limbara. They perfectly cleanse the body, having a particularly beneficial effect on the kidneys. This water has excellent taste.

The Rifugio Monte Maccione mountains are connected to the Lanaittu Valley, where you can see interesting caves. Speleologists can also find them in the Supramonte massif. It is there that the Nurra de Sas Palumbas cave, famous for its vegetation, is located. The largest karst spring in Italy, Su Gologone, belongs to this group of mountains. The highest peak of Sardinia - Monte Corrasi (1463 m) - is a bare rock, the originality of which is given by bizarre ridges, karst plateaus, sinkholes, caves and other geological formations.

In Sardinia, in addition to traditional beach holidays, trekking is popular. People take hiking trips into the mountains to admire the incredible scenery. These walks are combined with visits to populated areas, where different holidays with tastings of local dishes. The cities themselves, with their ancient houses and narrow streets, are also interesting to explore.

Sicily, despite its small size, contains four mountain ranges - Peloritani, Nebrodi, Le Madonie, Iblean Mountains. They are a continuation of the young Apennine Mountains, and therefore have a stormy character. There are active volcanoes here, among which Mount Etna stands out.

Important! Excursions to this volcano are available for tourists (cost 60 euros*). The ascent is carried out along the southern slope by bus to an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level, from there the journey continues by cable car. To see the crater, learn and feel the consequences of the eruption, you need to travel a few more kilometers by jeep.

Etna at the time of the eruption

Very developed in Sicily beach holiday, but regardless of the season, it is possible to get unforgettable experience from natural and cultural attractions, which are abundant throughout the island.

Apennine Mountains: description, peaks, types of recreation

The geological structure of the Apennines is predominantly clay, and the landscape is very diverse. Rising 1200-1800 meters above sea level, they are distinguished by the fact that the peaks have a rounded shape. This gives the landscape a unique charm. The presence of the Calderone glacier ensures the existence of ski resorts. They are less known than the Alpine ones, but no worse than them.

There are several natural parks in the Apennines, among which Abruzzo is very popular. Tourists come here to admire the views, visit historical places, and try dishes local cuisine. Because thanks to volcanic activity they beat thermal springs, rest on balneological resorts is also in great demand. Among such resort towns one can name Montecatini, located literally half an hour’s drive from Florence.

Note! The Apennines are loved by climbers, especially beginners. Tourists are engaged in trekking, making long journeys on foot against a stunning backdrop beautiful views. Another popular activity is orienteering.

Holidays in the mountains of Italy: unforgettable routes on the map, prices

The mountains of Italy are conducive to different types recreation. Ski routes in the Alps and Apennines provide the opportunity to try them out for people with any level of training. The trails are marked by color depending on their difficulty. A ski pass in the Dolomites costs 254 euros for 6 days in high season, 59 euros for one day.* For children and older people the price is lower. A ski pass in the Apennine ski resorts is cheaper than in the Alps. In high season, you have to pay 41 euros for one day of skiing; a six-day pass costs 193 euros.

Lovers alpine skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo

The map of routes for those who like to relax in the mountains includes, in addition to skiing, hiking And Bus tours with visits to many cities, each of which has its own unique features and attractions.

In Italy you can visit mineral springs, visit ski resort and have a nice time. Thus, a holiday in the mountains here will bring an unforgettable experience to any tourist.

*Prices shown are current as of September 2018.

An overview photo report of the most beautiful places in the Italian Dolomites. The camera lens captured cozy towns, picturesque rivers, fantastically beautiful lakes, fabulous mountain valleys, winding serpentines and mountain passes.

I was lucky enough to visit the Dolomites twice - in autumn and summer. I will begin my report on this stunning mountainous UNESCO World Heritage Site with a trip in November. Through the window, through the darkness and clouds, the snow-capped peaks of the foothills of the Italian Alps are visible. The plane is landing in Bergamo, it is eleven o'clock in the evening. Having received our 500 Fiat at the airport, we go to the hotel in the Old Town.

Waking up before dawn, I hurried to the walls of Sitta Alta to admire the beautiful morning view from them.

2. Bergamo - very beautiful and cozy town with beautiful varied architecture and a unique atmosphere. The old part of the city is located on top of a hill. After having a snack, I climb the highest mountain to look at the Cathedral, the Church of St. Mary Maggiori and the Palace of the Mind. The foggy view turned out to be just what we needed.

3. In November, nature here is replete with rich and bright autumn colors, and the trees beckon to pick their ripe, beautiful and juicy fruits. It’s a pity that only my long-focus lens could reach this persimmon.

4. Before leaving for the Dolomites, we decided to take a walk around the center of the main city. On Sundays there is a festive atmosphere here: fairs, folk festivals and entertainment are everywhere.

5. We take the Venice highway, then go north. The road gradually gains altitude, we turn into Riva del Garda.

Inspection of this most picturesque place starts from the observation deck. From here you have a magnificent view of northern part Lake Garda. This is where the foothills end and the real Alps begin.

6. The ancient town of Riva del Garda is very cozy and well-kept. No wonder he is considered one of the best places holidays in Italy. But now is not the season. On the almost deserted streets you can only meet lonely pensioners and fishermen. All cafes and restaurants are closed. The picturesque embankment is unusually deserted.

7. As soon as I took the bread out of my backpack, all the birds immediately flew from the area. The sparrows, seagulls and pigeons were so hungry that they snatched pieces right out of our hands and fought for every crumb.

8. But we need to move further towards Austria. The beauty of the mountains in autumn is amazing. Clouds hang over the well-groomed green slopes, yellow vineyards add contrast to the already picturesque pictures. The Alps at this time of year resemble puzzles, the pattern of which on each individual mountain is original.

9. On almost every rock, under the very clouds, they build the most beautiful medieval castles and at home.

10. Before Bolzano, we left the highway and climbed the serpentine road into the mountains to enjoy the beautiful scenery, take a walk and breathe in the purest mountain air. Beauty surrounds us on all sides, and we are among the clouds.

11. The next morning we were to find ourselves in Dandelion Valley...

It's dark outside. Thick clouds surrounded the mountain valley of the city of Bolzano. There is a light drizzle outside. The soft and warm bed does not let me out of its embrace into the cool and damp autumn mountains. No matter how much I would like it, I have to get up and follow the planned program. After breakfast, we leave for one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites, this is Dandelion Valley. Having left the main road, we rushed up the seemingly endless mountain serpentine. The dark sky, which had recently hung overhead, now appeared before my eyes. It gets light very slowly. The higher we rise, the denser the clouds become.

12. To be honest, I imagined the morning in Dandelion Valley in a different light (orange sun, curly clouds and other beauty). But now it’s the end of November outside the window - a time of heavy snowfalls. The weather makes its own adjustments and we have to be content with such a cloudy and foggy morning.

13. In the Dandelion Valley there is a wonderful village - Santa Magdalena. After some wandering we find ourselves there. Friendly locals in Tyrolean attire are already wishing us good morning. Some of them are already chopping wood at such an early hour, and some are starting the tractor, the workers have begun repairing the road, a team of woodcutters is ready to leave for the plot. A police car also showed up. Why is she in these parts? This is probably the most peaceful place on the entire planet; it would be better if they were sent somewhere to Sicily :)

14. Santa Magdalena is a very pleasant and quiet place at the foot of magnificent mountain ranges, with beautiful alpine houses, many beautiful flowers on the streets in the summer, households, churches, rivers. We climb onto observation deck to admire the fantastic view mountain peaks. Below in the frame you can see the wonderful three-thousanders: Sass Rigais and Furchetta, which did not dare to peek out from behind the clouds :) Sad, but still beautiful.

15. I had to turn on the “time machine” and move forward seven months. I found myself in someone's garden without permission and was impressed by the sunset light. And you, dear readers, which view do you like best?

16. Sharp dolomite teeth strive to grab some lush cloud, shining with a stunningly beautiful rainbow in the warm evening light. Such beauty is everywhere here.

17. The Chapel of St. Johann stands alone and modestly on a spacious alpine meadow.

18. Let’s finish our inspection of this most picturesque valley, in which I never saw dandelions. We go back down and then climb the most beautiful Alpine passes.

19. We had to go around the Sella group mountain range twice. Having climbed a little uphill, the road forked, and the sign read: “If you go left, you will get to the Passo Gardena pass, if you go right, you will get to the Passo Sella pass.”

In November the lot fell on Sella. From 1500 meters the road rose through the clouds to the 2200 mark. The snow increased with each turn of the road. From somewhere out of the clouds, illuminated by the sun, creamy sheer cliffs could be seen.

20. One thing was good - the road was cleared, and there was only ice in places. The magnificent view of the winter snow-capped Alps was worth such an extreme trip. Having risen above the clouds, we saw the sun for the first time in 2 days.

21. Having left this pass and overcome a couple more similar ones, we finally found ourselves in the capital of the 1956 Winter Olympic Games - the city of Cortina d'Ampezzo. This is a panoramic view of the city and mountain valley.

22. Returning to my “time machine”... It’s July again. At the fork in Val Gardena I turn left. It's already dark. I climb to the 2100 mark, to the Passo Gardena pass. Despite the middle of summer, it’s only +4 outside. I spend the night in a hotel at the pass.

23. The morning begins, as always, early. Climbing onto one of the slopes, a magnificent view of the serpentine rising from the Gardena Valley opened up in front of me.

24. This beautiful chapel on the pass was built already in this century. It fits well into the beautiful mountain landscape.

25. Next to it are these barracks (or maybe huts or barns). If it weren’t for the mountains in the background, I would have thought that this was the Russian outback, and not the center of Europe.

26. Having left the Passo Gardena pass, I headed along a winding and narrow gorge to the village of La Valle.

27. The smell of manure, which is dumped here right along the road, immediately made me feel the village flavor. But it in no way affected the positive impression of this wonderful place.

28. Having climbed to the very top, the road ended, I got out of the car to admire the magnificent view of the mountain valley. A black domestic cat kept me company.

29. La Valle reminded me a lot of Dandelion Valley. A very beautiful place where you can be away from the urban jungle, breathe clean mountain air and admire the fantastic mountain scenery.

30. I won’t linger here, there is still a very busy program ahead. After making a couple more stops, I headed further. After driving another 15 kilometers, the road took me to the banks of the Rienza River.

31. The next place I visited was the pearl of the Dolomites - Lake Lago di Braes. It is located at an altitude of almost 1500 meters above sea level. Anyone planning a route through the Alpine corners of Italy should definitely visit here.

32. Having difficulty finding a space in three equipped parking lots, I went for a walk along the shore of the emerald lake. People are brought here by bus, so here you don’t feel lost far in the mountains. The path along the lake resembles the sidewalk of a decent city.

33. However, this in no way detracts from the beauty of Lago di Braes and does not cause discomfort. You can walk around the lake in about an hour, covering a distance of about 5 kilometers. It’s a pity that the weather was cloudy without a single hint of daylight.

34. After taking a walk, I headed to the car, but a nearby cafe beckoned me with fresh and fragrant pastries, so I had to stay here for half an hour to have lunch and then visit another lake located nearby. Meet Lake Dobyakko (Toblakh Si).

35. In November, we were caught in a terrible snowfall here, but we looked at the beautiful swans, which were supposed to fly away towards the warm Adriatic any day now.

36. Directly there are only 150 kilometers.

37. My route was built in a different way, but a camera tripod forgotten in La Valle made adjustments and the next place I ended up in was the Valparola pass and the lake of the same name. There is still snow on the pass even in July.

38. After admiring Lake Valparola from above, I decided to come closer to its shore. As soon as I got closer, I noticed some kind of creature scurrying around near the shore. From a distance it was difficult to identify him. The “long” lens, reserved for such cases, helped me.

39. I read on the Internet that if you are very lucky, you can meet Alpine marmots in the Dolomites. It turns out I was lucky. However, as soon as I tried to get closer to him, he immediately hid behind numerous stones. This photo is from the series find the groundhog :)

40. Now I’ll tell you about another Dolomite lake. From the city of Bolzano there is a direct road to it, which begins with a three-kilometer tunnel. The lake itself is about 25 kilometers away. On the way I make a stop in Welschnofen to take a closer look at the interesting chapel.

41. This lake is called Karreza and it greeted me very cloudy and rainy in places. Hopes for good weather there was almost none, so we had to be content with such corpulent species

42. Decided to go back and drink coffee in the parking lot. The miracle happened in about 15 minutes. The clouds suddenly retreated and the sun finally illuminated the water surface of the lake.

43. This shot of the Lattemar Mountains in the reflection of Lake Carreza took second place in one of the National Georgaphic photo competitions.

44. Having traveled around the Dolomites enough, I headed towards probably the most picturesque mountain range, Tre Cime Di Lavaredo, to meet the Alpine sunset there. Having safely crossed the Tre Croci pass, I found myself near Lake Misurina. Standing on the shore of Misurina with a cup of tea and hot apple strudel, bought in a store on a nearby street, I admire the stunning view of the mountain lake.

45. Having traveled only a few kilometers up, I found myself on another lake called Antorno.

46. ​​Carpets of colorful and fragrant alpine flowers and herbs surround almost all the shores of this fabulous lake. The weather was magnificent, and towards evening it finally cleared up.

47. At the risk of missing the last rays of the long-awaited sun, I rise up from Antorno. A barrier blocks my way. Having paid 20 euro rubles, I pass through. Having wound 15 turns of the serpentine I was already familiar with, I found myself somewhere in a rain cloud, and the thermometer was again +4. Auronzo's hostel-shelter, located 100 meters from me, was barely visible. Hello, we've arrived! Where is the sun that was shining in my face 10 minutes ago? Where is the sunset and the most important question: where, in fact, is the trident of Tre Cime di Lavaredo itself? Of course, I’m not one of those people who gets discouraged, but I clearly wanted to see something else here. Having left some things at the shelter, I went straight to the cloud for luck in the hope of seeing at least something...

48. After walking half a kilometer, the cloud suddenly ended, and the majestic mountain peaks of Lavaredo loomed above me. On the way, I came across this beautiful chapel, which was built right on the edge of the abyss. The area of ​​light around her seemed very symbolic to me.

49. Amazing mountain landscapes it’s everywhere, just have time to turn your head and press the camera buttons. After jumping over a small pass, I finally saw Tre Cime from the other side. I saw it exactly as I had imagined it. This is what a sunset in the Alps looks like.

50. However, the miracle did not last long; in this light I was able to take only a few shots, as the sun first disappeared behind the clouds, and then behind the neighboring mountain peaks. But thanks for that too. At the foot there are three small lakes""no name" with crystal clear glacial water.

51. Before dark I had to get to Auronzo’s shelter. The route “around Tre Cime” turned out to be about nine kilometers.

52. The next place I will visit is the magnificent Lake Federa, hidden in the mountains.

53. After Cortina, D’Ampezzo had to slow down and look for the right path. Fortunately, there was an information stand and signs near it. Leaving the car right on the side of the road, I began the six-kilometer climb.

54. At first the track was relatively flat and passed near a beautiful mountain gorge. Having crossed the bridge, I came across a very steep mountain, which I had to climb. A challenge worthy of a good workout.

55. I have already seen a lot of things in the Dolomites, but Feder will be remembered for its unique and unlike anything else landscapes and atmosphere of alpine tranquility.

56. I went down to the car much faster and headed towards the already mentioned Valparola pass. Having not reached it a little, I left the car in the parking lot next to the deployed division of NATO troops and began a two-kilometer climb to Lake Limides.

57. Along the way, I repeatedly came across fortifications from the First World War. Due to its accessibility, this route is very popular, especially among tourists with children.

58. Lake Limides is not very large - only 100 meters in length. It is surrounded on all sides by magnificent mountain ranges. The springs bubbling at the bottom of the lake create the illusion of heterogeneity and multi-colored water.

59. The Cinque Torri mountain is just a stone's throw from here.

60. You can climb to its foot either by ski lift or by car. Since the ski lift ends quite early, I drove up the mountain by car. The one-kilometer walk to the foot of the Cinque Torri, naturally, was not difficult.

61. There is a museum of the First World War under open air. There are trenches and dugouts everywhere.
The dugouts have been reconstructed, mannequins of soldiers and replicas of weapons from those times are on display.

62. The highest peak has a height of 2361 meters. About five years ago, this massif was partially destroyed - a huge boulder broke off from the second peak and fell. Climbers constantly train on the steep cliffs of the Cinque.

This is the last place from my report. I planned to stay here until late in the evening, but the changeable wind again brought in numerous clouds from somewhere, and it began to rain. Realizing that this was the Dolomites’ way of saying “Goodbye!” to me, I got into the car and set off on a multi-hour drive to the Adriatic coast...

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Italy is an amazing place. When you come here on vacation, you will be sure that you will have an interesting and exciting time. But do you know everything about the land of wine and sun? We've picked ten interesting facts about Italy that you may not have known about.

In fact, no one knows where Italy got its name from.


 The word "Italy" comes from a word that translates as "land of calves." Historians still argue to this day about how the sunny country got its name. Some believe that Italy owes its name to one of the first sovereigns who ruled in ancient times in the territory of the current region of Calabria - Ital, while there is another version, according to which the Italoi people lived in the same region of the country. thanks to which Italy became Italy.

Italy ranks fourth in Europe in terms of population.



 This trend is due to the high birth rate and low death rate. In terms of its territorial area, the country of wine and sun is comparable to the American state of Arizona, but the population on the Apennine Peninsula is ten times higher than the same figure in Arizona (about 60 million Italians and 6 million Arizonans). For every square kilometer in Italy there are about 200 inhabitants.

Italy lies on a tectonic fault line.



 This is one of the reasons why the country is regularly “shaken” and filled with lava by volcanoes: in 2014 alone, Italy experienced three eruptions (Etna). Let's also not forget about the almost continuous eruption of the volcano (Stromboli) that has been going on for the last 20 thousand years and has been dormant since 79, but is ready to give a surprise at any moment (Vesuvio).

Italy has the highest mountain in Europe.



 And it is called Mont Blanc (translated as “white mountain”). This peak is part of the Western Alps and is located on the border between France and Germany.

More than 50 million tourists visit Italy every year.



 Tourism plays a very significant role in well-being warm country, influencing directly the gross national product. According to the latest data, more than 60% of the state treasury came from tourism.

Football is the most popular sport in Italy.


Residents of sunny Italy are very ardent football fans. They not only regularly go to matches of their favorite teams, but also often “chase” the ball themselves.

Christmas is the main holiday of the year.


Religious Italians have already acquired interesting and slightly unusual celebration traditions

There are no less rocky cliffs and mountain peaks in Italy than there are seas with beaches and vineyards. This is very beautiful country, but they have a special attraction ancient cities, built on hilltops or mountain slopes. They harmoniously combine historical architecture with majestic landscapes that will take the breath away of any wanderer. These are the best mountain towns in Italy.

1. Manarola , Where to stay

This one is incredible beautiful city, which climbed onto the rocks, was once very popular among travelers, despite the fact that there were no recreation areas or landscaped beaches. In this ancient town, life flows very calmly and measuredly, which is the best bait for a certain category of tourists.
Manarola has winding, narrow ancient streets without the noise and stench of cars with annoying traffic jams. But there are many generously fruiting vineyards. Many types of wines that are popular all over the world are made from local grapes. To see this cozy town, you need to cross the Lovers' Bridge along the most picturesque tourist route in this region.


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2. Roccascalegna , Where to stay

A three-hour drive from Rome in the province of Chieti is the small commune of Roccascalegna. It is located 455 meters above sea level. Tourists come here to enjoy the cleanest mountain air and magnificent Mediterranean nature. The sudden appearance of the castle, as if transported to the tops of two limestone cliffs that rise from the valley of the Secco River, causes indescribable delight among travelers. Locals This castle is simply called La Rocca, that is, “the fortress.” It was built by the Lombards to protect against attacks by the Byzantines. At first it was just a watchtower, but gradually, due to additions, it turned into a castle of decent size.
This castle is associated with a legend about how Baron Corvo de Corvis died in 1646, who decided to revive the feudal tradition of the “right of the first night” (any bride from the feudal lord’s domain had to spend her wedding night with the lord). Legend has it that either the newlywed herself or her new husband, dressed in a woman’s dress, killed the lustful aristocrat, and he, dying, allegedly left an indelible imprint of his bloody hand on the wall.

3. Urbino , Where to stay

2 hours from Bologna in the Marche region there is a cultural and historical center - ancient city Urbino. The architecture of the buildings here is very interesting, among which the house in which Rafael Santi, one of the geniuses of the Renaissance, was born and spent his youth, especially attracts attention. At that time, Urbino was one of the centers of education, culture and politics in Italy. Now the UNESCO center has included it in its list World Heritage as a specially protected area.
What makes Urbino unique is its location on the slopes of two hills at once - the narrow cobblestone streets here either climb steeply up or down. Local palaces and medieval residential buildings are also interesting.

4. Civita di Bagnoregio , Where to stay

In the metropolitan region of Lazio, 140 km from Rome, in the province of Viterbo, there is the medieval castle town of Civita di Bagnoregio. It has a picturesque location on top of a hill separating two valleys. You can get there only through a 300-meter pedestrian bridge, which appeared here only in 1965.
In 2006, UNESCO included Civita di Bagnoregio on its list of 100 sites in danger of destruction. This little one locality over 2500 years old - it was founded by the Etruscans, after which it became part of the Roman Empire and survived the Middle Ages. Now it is practically deserted, but it has become a lively tourist spot with accompanying trattorias, pizzerias, hotels and souvenir shops.

5. Erice , Where to stay

This Sicilian commune is located 1.5 hours drive from the island's capital, Palermo. In that medieval city there are three castles at once: Balio, Pepoli and Norman, and besides them there are several more equally ancient temples. There is an observation deck from which a gorgeous panorama of the coastal town of Trapani with its turquoise beaches, barely visible in the blue sea haze of the Aegadian Islands, opens up in full view, and in clear, good weather, at the very edge of the horizon you can see the African coast of Tunisia.


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6. San Gimignano , Where to stay

In the province of Tuscany there is a medieval town of San Gimignano, proudly flaunting its towers on a hill, as symbols of the former government. Its ancient palaces and stone-paved streets attract huge numbers of tourists every year. It is no coincidence that it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This city was first mentioned in documents from 929. At that time, it was a stopover for pilgrims traveling from England to Rome, as well as on the way from Pisa to Siena, thanks to which it grew and prospered for a long time. It is worth turning a little to the side of San Gimignano main street, you immediately find yourself in the Middle Ages, as if time has stood still here. A special feature of the town is the large number of towers on its streets.

7. L'Aquila , Where to stay

In the central part of the Apennines, the ancient town of L'Aquila climbed to a height of over 700 m above sea level. It is located in the Apennine Mountains, in the picturesque valley of the Aterno River. This place contains many attractions: palaces, fountains, monuments, bridges, museums, a labyrinth of narrow winding streets, vividly reminiscent of the medieval life of the city.
L'Aquila has several educational and cultural institutions, including a conservatory and an art academy. Around historical center The city has a powerful fortress wall, which seems to be trying to protect a corner of medieval culture from the onslaught of modernity. L'Aquila is located in a seismically active area, so strong earthquakes periodically occur here. So, on April 6, 2009, a powerful earthquake occurred here, destroying part of the historical buildings and killing over 200 city residents.


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8. Pitigliano , Where to stay

Not so far from Rome in Tuscany is the commune of Pitigliano. Already upon approaching it, a wonderful panorama opens up that you can admire for a long time. Many of the cars passing on the road slow down on a specially prepared observation deck. Tour guides like to call the view from here the most luxurious not only in Tuscany, but throughout Italy.
From here it seems that Pitigliano literally grows out of the rocks, especially since some of the houses here are actually carved right into the rocks. About 4,000 people live in Pitigliano, who earn their living mainly from tourism and agriculture. The city is sometimes called “little Jerusalem” - apparently due to its long and interesting story, and also for the fact that Jews historically settled here.

9. Sorano , Where to stay

A two-hour drive from Rome is the commune of Sorano, which is a tangled labyrinth of tiny streets, courtyards, stairs and arches. A famous landmark of Sorano are the wine cellars, carved right into the rock. But the main one is still considered to be the royal castle of Orsini, built in the 14th century, which was rebuilt by Niccolò IV Orsini in 1552. This castle is considered a typical example of Renaissance military architecture. There is also an unusual attraction here - Masso Leopoldino - a natural fortified tuff terrace, which was cut down here by order of Prince Leopold. Not far from Sorano are the Vittosu fortress and a cave settlement.

10. Aosta , Where to stay

The capital of the Valle d'Aosta region is the small medieval town of Aosta, located 585 meters above sea level at the foot of the Pennine Alps near the confluence mountain rivers Butir and Dora Baltea. In Aosta, the entire perimeter of the walls, the layout, all the towers have been preserved; there are many monuments from the Roman period. The entrance to the city from the east is the famous Praetorian Gate. A local medieval monument is temple complex Saint Orso, built here between 994 and 1025. A large Romanesque three-nave church, the walls of which are decorated with frescoes, replaced more old temple from Carolingian times.
The patron saint of Aosta is considered to be Saint Orso, who traveled with a bird on his shoulder. For his kindness to people, he was ranked among the saints. The residents of Aosta greatly revere this saint; on New Year's Eve they regularly organize fairs dedicated to him.

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