Italy is a country that is steeped in rich history, culture, and scrumptious food. Pasta, pizza, and Aperol Spritz hail from this Mediterranean country. The country has a mild climate near the sea, but in the mountainous regions of the north, it borders the Alps and is therefore colder. Animals that roam in the country are vast and diverse. They include mountain goats, otters, and marmosets.
Today, Italy is a democracy that is part of the European Union. It is one of the most populous countries in the European continent with 58.8 million people. It also borders six countries. Let’s take a look at the six countries that share a border with Italy.
Austria
Austria is Italy’s neighbor to the northeast. It is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. The border is mostly mountainous, as Austria is generally a mountainous nation. The Alps mostly cover Austria, which means that its climate is temperate to a cold continental climate. The country is extremely biodiverse and is home to animals like foxes, bears, owls, and falcons.
France
With its famous landmarks, food, and architecture, France is one of the most visited countries in the world. The nation borders Italy to the northwest and the border is a mountainous one until it reaches the coast, which is more plain. France has several climates because of its geographic location and the size of the country. More than 25% of France is forested and the animals that make France home include brown bears, chamois antelopes, as well as flamingos.
Slovenia
Located in Central Europe, Slovenia borders Italy to the northeast. The country is mountainous for the most part, which means the border it shares with Italy is just that. The exception is the part where it borders the Adriatic Sea. Slovenia is a diverse country with many animals, including Alpine ibexes, brown bears, and Krškopolje pigs.
Switzerland
Switzerland is a landlocked country that borders Italy to the north. The Alps mountain range separates the country, which means that the border is mountainous. The Alps are a popular tourist destination perfect for those who want to ski or do other snow activities. The animals that live in the mountains include the ibex, mountain goat, and others.
San Marino
San Marino is a tiny landlocked nation that is home to 33,000 people. It is surrounded by Italy on all sides. It is a mountainous and hilly country that attracts nature-loving tourists and hiking enthusiasts. There are a variety of animals living in the small country, which include rodents, bats, horses, and its national bird, the peregrine falcon.
Vatican City
A landlocked tiny nation, Vatican City is the seat of the Pope. The Pope, currently Francis, is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the smallest country in the world with a population of only several hundred people living there. Vatican City is surrounded by Rome, Italy’s capital.
Conclusion
The six countries that share a border with Italy include Austria, France, Slovenia, Switzerland, San Marino, and Vatican City. Italy is a fascinating country with a lot of history and culture. It is one of the most popular countries to visit. Visiting Italy will open up your minds, hearts, and your stomachs (with the delicious pasta!).
The photo featured at the top of this post is © vololibero/iStock via Getty Images
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