Arguably the best and most powerful empire of the ancient world, Italy has been the host of numerous monumental events. Everybody knows about the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Uffizi Art Gallery in Florence, with some of the most famous works of art in history. The whole nation was built upon the strength and courage of the Roman warriors, the tact and smarts of their leaders, and the thirst of ambition for power and domination. They were certainly a fascinating group of people that we're still talking about today, a group that has made a lasting impact on our world.

Fast forward today, and you'll find something a little different from ancient Rome. Instead of gladiator fights to the death, you can find little cafe's tucked into corners on cobblestone streets. Instead of families walking through the Forum and going on their way, you'll see packed streets with people from all over the world, snapping pictures and gaping at the majesty of it all. Instead of watching bloody gladiator fights in the Colosseum, you can tour old chapels with colorful stain glass windows. Instead of preparing your meals from scratch with grown fruits and bread, you can sit down in a local restaurant for a late dinner and savor your food, bite by bite.

There is so much to see, so much to do, and so much to learn. Bits and pieces of our world's modern culture reflect some of the values from centuries of Italian history, and they've contributed to our society in ways we'd never know (Have you ever driven on a road? Then you owe the Romans). Some of their art and architecture remains in our style, in our homes, and in our textbooks. The history of Italy has mixed into their modern lifestyles, like a new masterpiece of a familiar picture.

Italy is now one of the most desired destinations on everyone's mind. No one can resist serene beaches on the Amalfi Coast along the Mediterranean Sea, the refreshing market streets of Venice, the ethereal echoes of the monumental art in Florence, or the pure timelessness of Rome. It's a country that lives and breathes culture. With strong family ties and homeland pride, a beautiful language, and an incredible history, Italy has a lot of things to teach us. Whether it's lessons from 625 B.C., or 2016, Italy will always be worth seeing.

"You may have the universe if I may have Italy." — Giuseppe Verdi

"Even now I miss Italy dearly, I dream about it every night." — Eila Hiltunen

"Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life." — Anna Akhmatova