Lazio

Lazio SRTM

Vallée de l'Aniene et Monts Prénestiens

Circeo

RomaViaAppiaAntica03

Palazzo Eni (Rome) in 2021.02

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce TB Automatic 2.0 Front

Lazio is one of the 20 administrative regions of Italy, situated in the central peninsular section of the country. With over 5.8 million residents as of 2021, it is the third most populous and the second most economically important region of Italy. The region's capital is Rome, which is also the capital and largest city of Italy.

Geography

Lazio extends over an area of approximately 17,236 square kilometers, making it the ninth largest region in Italy. It is bordered by Tuscany to the north, Umbria to the northeast, Marche to the east, Abruzzo and Molise to the southeast, Campania to the south, and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west. The region's landscape is varied, featuring coastal plains, mountainous areas (such as the Apennines), and volcanic lakes.

History

The history of Lazio is deeply intertwined with the history of Rome, which has been the dominant city in the region since ancient times. The region was the heartland of the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire, and it has been a center of power, culture, and religion for centuries. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the region experienced periods of Byzantine, Lombard, and Papal rule before becoming part of the unified Kingdom of Italy in 1870.

Economy

Lazio's economy is one of the most developed in Italy, with a GDP per capita above the national average. The region benefits from the presence of the Italian government and numerous international organizations in Rome, making the public sector a significant employer. Other important industries include tourism, especially in Rome and its surroundings, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and technology.

Culture

Lazio has a rich cultural heritage, with its roots going back to Roman times. The region is home to numerous archaeological sites, including the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon in Rome. Lazio is also known for its significant contributions to Italian cuisine, with dishes such as pasta alla carbonara and amatriciana originating from the region.

Demographics

The population of Lazio is predominantly Italian, but the region has seen a significant increase in immigration in recent years, leading to a more diverse demographic profile. The official language is Italian, and the majority of the population is Roman Catholic, though there are communities of other religions due to recent immigration.

Administrative divisions

Lazio is divided into five provinces: Rome, Frosinone, Latina, Rieti, and Viterbo. Each province has its own unique characteristics and attractions, from the historical sites and urban culture of Rome to the natural beauty of the countryside and coastal areas.

Conclusion

Lazio plays a crucial role in Italy's history, economy, and culture. Its blend of historical significance, economic development, and natural beauty makes it a key region in Italy, attracting millions of tourists and serving as a central hub for politics and business.