The highly complex history of Italy has resulted in the great differences between north and south and from region to region. Remains of the Etruscan period are to be found in Tuscany and Lazio, while Ancient Greek ruins (and pockets of people who still speak a kind of Greek!) are evident in Southern Italy. Needless to say, the legacy of Ancient Rome is still eminently visible. Following the fall of Rome, Italy endured many centuries of internal warfare and unrest, yet somehow the Renaissance bloomed amidst the strife between Popes, Emperors and Kings, between families and city-states. Modern Italy only began to take shape in the 19th century, and the monarchy established in 1861 lasted until World War II, when Mussolini took charge. In 1948 Italy became a Republic.

No wonder, then, that it is a land of castles and fortresses, walled hilltop towns, fortified farmhouses and tall towers. But it is also a country of fabulous art and architecture, stunning museums and art galleries, sublime churches and ancient places where ghosts walk.