Women.com on MSN: 9 celeb wedding dresses ranked by their exorbitant price tags Wedding dresses cost thousands, and while it may seem excessive to spend so much on a gown, some celebrities are willing to spend far more on their big day. Italy, [a] officially the Italian Republic, [b] is a country in Southern and Western Europe. [c] It consists of a peninsula that extends into the Mediterranean Sea, with the Alps on its northern land border, as well as nearly 800 islands, notably Sicily and Sardinia.

Understanding the Context

Geographical and historical treatment of Italy, including maps and a survey of its people, economy, and government. Italy comprises some of the most varied and scenic landscapes on Earth, and its more than 3,000-year history has been marked by episodes of temporary unification and long separation. Italy is a state in Southern Europe, in the center of the Mediterranean. It is a member of the European Union and NATO, and is the third largest economy in the Eurozone.

Key Insights

Italy Map - Geography and Facts | Discover Italy with Detailed Maps U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in Italy considering a number of factors, from affordability and seasonality to sights and crowds, to help you decide exactly where to go. 20 Best Places to Visit in Italy: First-Time Musts and Underrated Gems