Italy

About the country
  
Italy - the most striking of all the classic European and most udivitelnyya around the globe. It is not enough known in the travel market, but the most popular among Europeans is third after France and the United States. In the last years of the present century Italy annually plays host to some 40 million foreign visitors. Especially popular this hospitable country enjoys among tourists United Kingdom, New Zealand, Brazil, South Korea and Australia. As for the popularity of holidays in Italy in our country - professionals believe that in the future we can expect only course of its growth. Therefore, Russian tourists have not yet had time to visit Europe, they are advised to start their journey from that corner of the world.
According to the committee in 2002, 227,000 visitors arrived in Italy from our country, including 149,000 visited the Apennines, which invariably are in the top ten of the most popular of all areas of outbound tourism from Russia. And the Italian statistics increases the numbers nearly doubling every year.

What can intrigue us with you in the country you cherish the highest mountains in Europe?
Exceptional ethics of the Russian people and his desire to get some creative freestyle air. This is one of the few European countries where the temperamental and sociable people do not cease to be loyal to their country and its centuries-old culture. They continue to contribute to the creation of countless monuments and gold mine and friendly atmosphere. We should know how Italians are experts in food. Even George Miller wrote: "Italian food has only one drawback: in five or six days, you already hungry again!" Face of the country changed dramatically over the twentieth century. Now the glory of modern Italy must not only the longest coastline of Mediterranean resorts with prekrasnymy landscapes, settled on the ruins of the Colosseum of Rome, the orange groves of Sicily, the white peaks of the Alps, the vineyards of Tuscany and Lazio, and a stunning kitchen. Today Italy - is also shopping, youth score bars, pizza, wine, and modern technology, produced by family firms cars, fashionable clothing and footwear, chemical products (ceramic and porcelain), popular all over the world, movies and other products with a proud inscription "made in Italy". Italian brands: Armani, Gucci, Ferrero, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Martini, Lavazza, Cavalli - the list is long.

Attractions

Italy is rightly called "the land of a museum." Judge for yourself: the ancient Roman civilization has about 60% of the historical and cultural sites throughout Europe, listed in UNESCO World Heritage List. There are more than 20,000 castles, about 30,000 churches and cathedrals, 700 museums, exhibitions and galleries. Almost every town in Italy is a separate self-worth museum otkrytytm sky. Take, for example, the region of Tuscany. One city has so many landmarks, which often do not possess even the whole country.

Tour of Italy usually choose a "classic" route, even if you never look in the museums at home, having got here, consider it his duty to visit the Sistine Chapel and Raphael's Stanzas in Rome, admire the "Venus" by Botticelli and "David" by Michelangelo in Florence, ride on the Piazza San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs by an exotic form of transport - a gondola from a new angle by looking at rising above the abyss of Venice, and in the same visit to the Doge's Palace.
  
Tourists come here again, because you can not see the country, where every city - a part of ancient history, for the week. But the center of each city with its squares, ancient buildings, stone cathedral itself would tell visitors about the ancient Romans, the Etruscan and medieval city-states. Lovers of art and elegance you can not speak of genuine Italian artistic taste. He felt as soon as you cross the border, and everywhere: in the elegant cafes and restaurants, in shops, in which each thing is like a museum piece in the style of dress - beautiful, on the one hand, simple and elegant on the other.

In Venice, all popular excursions include visits to the central area of the city, which is known as the "Gateway to Hell," and the Shroud of Turin near the cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Roman Coliseum refurbish

Colosseum - the symbol of Rome and its long history - was built by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and opened as early as the reign of his successor - the Emperor Titus. The name Colosseum (from Latin colosseus - "huge") received on behalf of a huge statue of Nero, who was nearby, in the Golden House (Domus Aurea). Had the form of an amphitheater, the Coliseum was surrounded by rows of tiered seating stands on which the spectators who came to posmotet gladiatorial combat and exotic animals around the arena was built terrace, designed for the emperor, senators, judges and fathers, and on the lower tier of the spectacle could see notable nobles and wealthy merchants, then followed the space for free citizens of Rome the middle class and the lower classes. On the top ranks were slaves, control the elevator, which was 36 at the Coliseum! Could leave the arena in two ways: out of life and out of death. One out pardoned gladiators, while the other carried the dead.
For spring 2010 godazaplanirovana scale restoration of the famous amphitheater Colosseum, the appearance of which was damaged by earthquakes in 443, 484.508, 801 and 1091, respectively. The monument, built between 70 and 72 years BC, belonged to a dynasty of Roman emperors of the Flavian. At the moment is one of the most visited attractions in the world and also welcomes 4 million tourists. Archaeologists say the ancient monuments - Roman columns, arches, amphitheaters, including the Colosseum, are robust, thanks to the flexibility of materials used for their construction. Although the damage and can be considered insignificant, but the authorities decided yet opochistit wall, equip the security system, upgrade and install a fence backlight.
It is assumed that the work will take a year, but for visitors to the Colosseum driver run as usual even during the restoration.

Basilica of St. Barbara
  
Basilica of St. Barbara (Basilica Palatina di Santa Barbara). During the construction of the various chapels for ducal third Duke of Mantua, Guglielmo wanted to erect a chapel adjacent to the apartment in the castle of the Duke of St. George, which was to serve as the court church. The basilica was designed by local architect Giovanni Battista Bertani from 1562 to 1572 years. Inside the church affects the proportions of each of its parts. Very beautiful choruses performed by an unknown master, and carried from the ruined church of St. Dominic. Basil kept many art treasures, among which we mention two: tapestries by Raphael and a prayer Barbara. At present, these treasures are kept in museums of the city. It was a tradition to open the church on 4 December (St. Barbara's Day) with celebrations confined to the Feast of Artillery, which was the patron Saint Barbara. Today the church is closed to the public due to the ongoing restoration work there.

Aquarium of Genoa

In the pedestrian zone of the city of Genoa Porto Antico Europe's largest marine Zoo Aquarium. It was built on the occasion of the anniversary of the discovery of America five hundred years in the exhibition center "Expo 92". Aquarium of Genoa - the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world, has a grand ocean containers large effect, there are swimming pools and aquariums (of 71), reproducing the marine and terrestrial environment around the world. In 1998, marine zoo was expanded, adding new routes, built "Grande Nave Blu - Big Blue Boat" - a real sea ship (2,500 square meters of exhibition. Meters), which included 19 new aquariums.

Arena di Verona

This amphitheater in Rome, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Europe, built in the first century AD, during the reign of Augustus. Arena di Verona has an oval shape with a length from one end to the other is 139 meters During its existence the Arena di Verona was the site of many exciting offers gladiator fights, knight fights, tournaments, night sights. Today Arena di Verona - the world-famous "archaeological theater", because of the annual summer opera festival held within its walls. Without a doubt, the Opera Festival "Arena di Verona" in the open air - a unique phenomenon in the operatic life of Europe.

Vatican
  
The independent state of the Vatican City was established by the "Lateran Treaty" (Concordat) between the Roman Catholic Church and the Italian state on February 11, 1929 Home of the Papal States was laid in the VIII., When King Pepin gave the Pope the area. The country's name is derived from the name of the hill of Monte Vaticano, which in the early Middle Ages was a palace, which since the end of the XIV century. permanent residence of the head of the Catholic Church. In 1870, the Vatican joined the kingdom of Italy. The seat of the higher authorities of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the smallest state in the world. Vatican Rome separated from the rest of the wall and the colonnade of St. Peter's. It takes only 44 hectares and has less than a thousand inhabitants. However, the Vatican has its own coat of arms and flag, it minted its own coins in circulation throughout Italy. In the Vatican Museums are collections of coins, more than 100 thousand prints, collection of paintings to the XVII century., Antique sculpture.

Milan Cathedral

Cathedral, located in the main square of Milan, Piazza Duomo, is often called "the eighth wonder of the world", because is the largest Gothic church in the world: the total area of the cathedral with a length of 158 meters, width - 58 m, is 11 300 sq.m. Milan Cathedral can also be attributed to the most famous "protracted" in Europe (along with the Cologne Cathedral and the Cathedral of St. Vitus in Prague), because, according to available data, its construction began in 1386 and ended only five centuries, in 1906. Church, built in honor of the Virgin Mary Nashente (is the full name of Milan Cathedral) was laid on the spot where once stood the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (IX century). According to the project proposed by the architect Marco di Campione, the cathedral was to be five-naval and keep in shape of a Latin cross, but over the years of building the appearance of the building was frequently changing, absorbing all the architectural styles, was common at different times in North Italy. Photos of Milan Cathedral can be found at "Office of the Cook" in the "Photo Gallery".
  
Uffizi Gallery - one of the oldest museums in Florence, which began in 1560, when the Duke of Florence, Cosimo de 'Medici decided to start construction of the building, later turned into the administrative center of Florence. The gallery features the world's largest collection of Italian paintings (XIII-XVIII centuries.), Among which the sample can be identified, "Allegory of Spring" and "The Birth of Venus" by Sandro Botticelli's "Adoration of the Magi" by Leonardo da Vinci and the "Tondo" (now circular ) "The Holy Family" by Michelangelo. On the site you can get acquainted with some pictures, exhibited in the museum, the history of their creation, as well as information about the authors. Tickets to visit the gallery, which is possible from Tuesday to Sunday at 8 euros.

Pantheon

The most perfect of all classical monuments, preserved in the Italian capital, is considered the Pantheon. For a long time it was believed that it was built in 27 BC, but excavations have shown that the Pantheon - the reconstructed building time of Hadrian (117-138 AD. AD). In 609, the pagan Pantheon became a Christian church of the Virgin Mary, so that was not destroyed.
The inner diameter of the Pantheon is 43.4 meters, is the same height. Through the hole in the dome of the sky can be seen, as if descending into the temple. It creates an atmosphere of solemnity and peace. Between two and three chapels located burial, in which the remains of Raphael. The inscription on his tombstone reads: "Here lies one Raphael, who competed with the Great Mother Nature. She feared that in his work he will surpass even her, and she will wither away when he's gone."

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Construction of the Tower of Pisa (La Torre di Pisa) began in 1173 and continued for the next two centuries. For a long time the view was that the tower was designed to tilt due to which she became famous around the world. However, according to the architect, whose name is still unknown, the tower had to be vertical: the slope appeared during construction. In the late 80's of the last century, the tower began to tilt to become dangerous to the survival of the building height of 55 meters restoration work, which lasted more than 10 years have reduced the slope of the building at 44 cm and return it in the condition in which it was in 1838. The site contains 6400 images detailing to meet with the individual elements of the tower.

The museum will open in Turin Magic

The Italian Government has promised to soon birth of a new tourist attraction - Museum of Magic. Under the project, the structure will be located in the center of the Italian city of Turin, on mestezabroshennoy church.
For centuries Believe told that the city is located at the intersection of the "white" and "black magic." Indeed, throughout the city meets a mysterious Masonic symbols, bizarre geometric shapes that adorn the building, as well as ominous gargoyles. so that the construction of such a museum only complement the image of the city and enhance its status as a magical place.
Inside the church, in accordance with the plan and have already drawn by planning, will house the exhibition, as well as a theater hall. The garden will establish a circus tent for special shows and unusual exhibitions. Provided and entertainment for children - childhood dreams to become an engineer will come true in the adventure mini-train.

Holidays in Italy
  
Italy offers a holiday for everyone. This landscape of beautiful and amazing cuisine of the region, unlimited opportunities for shopping, extensive beaches, elegant spa-resorts, the largest number of ski resorts, and, finally, a rich cultural heritage. Significant development here have not only informative excursion and beach, but also health and beauty, pilgrim, active, "green", gastronomic and other types of tourism.

Skiing - It was in Italy longest ridges and glaciers over a thousand kilometers. More than 2,200 km dizzying slopes, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, make the Italian ski resorts world-class resort.

Activities - The life of Italians. Mountains run through the entire length of the country - from the Alps and the Dolomites in the north to the Apennines, forming a kind of "backbone" of the peninsula. Alpine skiing and other winter activities are extremely popular. In addition, five national parks, protected by the law on the national passion for hunting. If you are more interested in a relaxing holiday at your disposal numerous seaside resorts of the country, whose beaches, mostly sand, lapped by clear waters of the five seas. In the southern part of Italy can be found absolutely wild, pristine beaches, relaxation which is for lovers of secluded relaxation.

The most popular tourist beaches of the campaign on the Sorrento Peninsula on the shores of Amalfi. Perhaps the most picturesque resort in Italy - Capri.

Hotels in Italy

Today the peninsula, which is located in Italy, is considered one of the leading tourist destinations. In the Mediterranean region, accounting for over a third of all guest arrivals. In Italy, presents the world's leading hotel brands such as Marriott, Westin, St. Regins, Accor, Holiday Inn, Forte Hotels, Le Meridien. According to the number of hotel rooms, the country is perhaps the first place in the Western Europe.

Hotels in Italy - are true works of architectural art. Hotels 3 * provide the bare minimum of amenities and good for tours in Italy. As a rule, in the rate of such hotels include breakfast, but this is usually not more than a cup of coffee and a bun. Hotels 4 * and 5 * provide a high level of comfort. In different cities of Italy Hotels of one category may differ significantly in quality. For example, in Rome or Florence 3 * hotels are quite comfortable and convenient at the time, as in Rimini 3 * hotels are considered less relevant the category.

Tour operator specializing in tours to Italy from Samara, Togliatti can provide tourists and Samara vacation at any level. In addition, tourism in Italy developed so that the hotels in Italy can offer any service to tourists - from 3 hzvezdochnogo economy class to luxury apartments.
This spring, the services of Italy offers travelers a completely new and already known tourist hotels undergone restoration. Novelties of the hotel business in this year spoil Milan. In March there will take guests Maison Moschino. The hotel took the building, built in the neoclassical style, once served as the train station.

Florence also offers tourists abandon buildings and spend the holidays in the oldest hotels in Italy. NH Porta Rossa first opened its doors in the XII century. The hotel is located in such a way as to make the guests feel comfortable walking to the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery and other attractions, which appeared in both the hotel. Incidentally, after the reconstruction of the building acquired some new features and aesthetic elements. According www.tourgenius.ru, in the coming months is expected to open hotels in other parts of Italy. So, on the shores of Lake Como, you can stay at Casta Diva Resort. In Apulia invites guests Borgo Egnazia. And the ones who are going to spend a holiday in Tuscany will have the opportunity to live in the Principe Hotel & Spa.

Comfortable tours

Tours in Italy are very comfortable, especially the fact that the airlines provide direct flights from Samara to Italy. Well as the country is suitable for any type of tourism based on the preferences of the tourist romantic and wedding tours, family tours, excursions and unforgettable beach vacation and shop-tourism. Your holiday in Italy depends on your personal preference.

The climate of Italy

All variety of climate is definitely a great expanse of longitude. In the north, the climate in the main transition from subtropical to temperate continental.

In July, the temperature rises to 24 C.
In January - around 0 C.

Climate peninsular and insular Italy - Mediterranean, which means that two thirds of the year there a clear blue sky, and the summers are hot and dry (July 26 C), mild winters and warm (+8 to +10 C in January) .
In the south of the peninsula from March to October, the dry hot winds blowing from the Sahara - sirocco. During this period, the temperature rises to about 35 C. The heat of the summer sea breeze softens the (growing at coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Adriatic from the weaker). The greatest number of sunny days per year reported in the south-eastern coast of Sardinia.