The official language of Italy is Italian. It is estimated that about 55 million people in Italy speak Italian, and 6.7 million people outside of Italy speak Italian. Between 120 and 150 million people use Italian as a second language worldwide. Just like the United States, Italy has many different dialects of the Italian language. Where in the United States, we may all speak English, different areas of the country pronounce the English language differently. Italy is similar in that different regions of the country pronounce words differently.
There are also a number of co-official languages in some areas of Italy. French is the co-official language in the Valle d'Aosta. German is the co-official language in the province of South Tyrol, and parts of neighboring Trentino. Slovene is spoken in the provinces of Trieste, Gorizia, Udine, and Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Religion
Vatican City
Religion is very popular and important in Italy, and 74% of Italians believe there is a God. Only 6% of the population believes there is no god or spiritual life force. By far the largest religion in Italy is Roman Catholicism. In fact, 87.8% of Italians identify themselves as Roman Catholics. Surprisingly, only 36.8% of these Roman Catholics describe themselves as being active members of the church. Minority Christians faiths in Italy include Waldensians, and Eastern Orthodox as well as some Protestant churches. In the 20th century, Pentecostalism, non-denominational Evangelicalism were the fastest growing Protestant churches, as well as Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormonism. Although Italy still remains a very Christian country, rising immigration has been the cause of an increase in non-Christian faiths.
Italian Culture
One of my favorite things about Italy, is its rich and unique culture. Italy is well known for its art, music, fashion, sports, cuisine, architecture, science, cinema, and literature. Italians are known for appreciating and focusing on the beauty of things. A phrase you may hear many Italians say is, "la bella figura," which means "the beautiful figure." It is Italy's philosophy and way of life. It is because of this philosophy why Italians have created some of the most spectacular things in the world.
Art - Some of the greatest artists were Italians such as, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Donatello, Raphael, Botticelli, Fra Angelico, Tintoretto, and Bernini.
Architecture - Italy has a very broad and diverse architectural style. Italy is known for its architectural achievements such as domes, arches, and similar structures during ancient Rome. Some of the finest works of architecture include the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the buildings in Venice, and the great cathedrals in Florence and Milan.
Music - Music has always played in important role in Italian culture. The piano and Violin were invented in Italy, as well as musical forms such as symphony, concerto, and sonata. Italy is also well known for being the birthplace of Opera. Today, Italian singers Andrea Bocelli, Laura Pausini, and Eros Ramazzotti have gained international attention.
Science - Italy has given birth to some of the most notable scientific minds. The most well known being Leonardo Da Vinci and Galileo Galilei. The Italians made important discoveries about the solar system, invented the electric battery, and advances in the mathematical field.
Sports - The most popular sport in Italy is football (what we call Soccer). Italy has won four FIFA World Cups, and is currently ranked the worlds second most successful national football team. It is the most successful European football team. Another popular sport in Italy is motorsports. Italy has won the most world Grand Prix Motorcycle racing. Famous car brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are from Italy.
Fashion and Design - With Milan being the fashion capital of the world, it is no surprise that Italy is well known for its beautiful fashion and design. Milan, Florence and Rome are Italy's fashion capitols. Major Italian fashion labels include Gucci, Prada, Versace, Valentino, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Fendi, Moschino, Max Mara, and Ferragamo. These are regarded some of the finest fashion houses in the world.
Cuisine - Italians love their cuisine, and at times is an actual art form. Italian cuisine is characterized by its extreme simplicity, often times only using up to four ingredients. Some of the most popular foods have originated in Italy including pizza, pasta dishes, and cheeses. Italy is also well known for its wine. And lets not forget their delicious Italian pastries and treats such as, cannoli, gelato, biscotti, cappuccino, and panettone.
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