In addition to the many talented painters, sculptors, designers and architects Italy has produced over the country´s long history, a fair amount of acting talent has come from Italy. Given Italy´s long association with opera, it should not be surprising that several well-known movie actors also hail from there. This article highlights the careers of three especially influential film stars from Italy: Giancarlo Giannini, Sophia Loren and Rudolph Valentino.

Many of the most iconic names in fashion belong to Italian designers and fashion houses. Several such companies have been established for over 100 years, while others have sprung up within the last four decades. This article gives a brief overview of several famous Italian fashion designers, including Georgio Armani, Guccio Gucci and Miucchia Prada.

Italy´s beauty has been inspiring Italian and international artists for centuries. Since the advent of the film industry, Italy has provided filmmakers with plot material and visually-appealing sets for movies as varied as the spaghetti westerns of Sergio Leone and Federico Fellini´s La Strada. This article provides a brief overview of several films that are by Italian directors and/or set in Italy.

Cuisine is an integral part of Italian culture, and any plans to visit the country should allow for plenty of time spent at the dinner table. While most of traditional Italian cuisine involves recipes easily prepared in the home kitchen, l´alta cucina is a growing movement that is putting Italy on the map in terms of avant-garde cuisine. This article touches on several chefs in the forefront of modern Italian cuisine.

The Italy National Football Team, known to fans as "Azzurri" (the Blues), have won four World Cup titles. The team was founded in 1910, and won their first very first match, which was against France. With coach Cesare Claudio Prandelli at the helm, the team have been showing well on the pitch this last year, and look to continue doing so.

Once the seat of one of the ancient world´s great empires, Italy continues to be a fascinating treasure trove of architectural marvels, gastronomic treats and inspiring artistic creations. Here are a few facts to get the world traveler or student started on their Italian explorations.