Italy
Property in Italy has long been a favourite for overseas investors and holidaymakers, seeking an alternative to the more common countries such as Spain, yet despite this, the Italian real estate market has not become saturated with resort developments and property here is still affordable and attractive.
Geography
Italy is located in southern Europe and is easily recognisable by the boot shape which comprises its extensive coastline. In the northern edge of Italy where it borders with France, Austria, Switzerland and Slovenia is the alpine region where skiing is plentiful. The Apennines mountain range spans the entire length of Italy from north to south, so good skiing is never far away!
The capital and largest city is Rome, situated about half way down the country near the west coast. Further south, (in the foot of the boot!) is the region of Calabria. Italian properties are sold by Vogue Estates in this region, which features a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers. The region’s capital is Calabria’s oldest city, Reggio di Calabria, at the toe of the boot, and here you will find many historical buildings such as the Aragonese Castle and remains of Roman baths. This area has long been popular with Italians, but is only now being developed to attract a wider market and its miles of coastline with soft, sandy beaches and rocky coves will certainly attract many. Investment property in Italy’s Calabria region should therefore offer good returns and for those simply looking for a holiday home are bound to enjoy the area’s history, climate and superb landscapes.
History
Italy was the home of the Roman Empire and it was from here that the Empire moved into Europe and conquered. Understandably then, the Romans had a great influence on Italy as it is today and places like the Colosseum in Rome are a testament to Roman architecture.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Italy spent many centuries in turmoil with no real countrywide leadership and instead consisting of a number of separate states, eventually falling under Spanish then Austrian rule in the 16th to 17th centuries.
Italian nationalist, Giuseppe Garibaldi together with the kingdom of Sardinia, shaped modern day Italy in the mid-19th century, seeking and gaining independence from Austria and to unite Italy as one country. However, after WW1 Italy was taken over by the Fascist dictator Mussolini, who then waged war on the Allies in WW2, resulting in defeat and economic setback for the country. A republic was established by popular vote in 1946 and this remains today.
Cuisine
Although Italy has many national dishes there are also many regional variations and regional dishes which have come to be embraced nationally. In the Calabrian region, seafood is widely available – Swordfish most notably, but also try sea urchin and squid amongst others. Many fruits were introduced to the region by the Arabs, such as oranges, lemons and aubergine (egg plant). Many types of melon are also popularly grown here. Three regional specialities are: Pitta coi pomodori – pitta bread with tomatoes; Pesce spada alla ghiotta – swordfish rolls in tomato sauce and Melanzane alla menta – eggplant marinated in mint.
Currency
Prior to 2002, the Italian Lira was used but now Italy’s official currency is the Euro.
Language
The official language of Italy is Italian though German and French are also spoken – the former in the South Tyrol and the latter in the Valle d’Aosta in the north-west.
Featured Property
Santa Venere
- Price : 123,841 EUR
- Location : Vibo Marina
- Description:
With its contemporary styling and beautifully appointed apartments, Santa Venere in Vibo Marina is a stunning development. When you consider the premier location, world-class architecture and impeccable credentials ownership here would bestow, you realise that Santa Venere stands alone....