Ancient Rome was one of the world's most powerful empires many years ago.The Romans' ideas about roads,laws,government and buildings still influence us today.
Italy is shaped like a boot.The Colosseum (罗马斗兽场)in Rome was built during the time of the Roman Empire,in the first century AD. It is a popular tourist attraction today.
Italy is well-known for its designers,who create cars,handbags,clothes,shoes and other items that are in demand for their style and fine workmanship.
Today,the economy of Italy is stronger than in the past. Today,manufacturing and tourism are the main sources of income.There are some big companies,but Italy has many smaller companies,too.
The southern part does not offer as many manufacturing jobs,so it is not as prosperous.
Italy is a member of the European Union,a group of countries that join together for better trade.The currency or money they use is called the "euro".
Food and eating good meals are important to Italians. McDonald's is also popular there.Many families still eat their main meal in the middle of the day. Families spend a lot of time together.
A.Italy has several islands off the coast.
B.The country used to depend on agriculture.
C.Mountains cover about three-fourths of the country.
D.The family is very important to the Italian way of life.
E.Popular foods include pasta,risotto,minestrone and pizza.
F.The northern part of the country is the main manufacturing center.
G.It could seat about 50,000 people,who went to see fights between animals and people.
