Italy is a small country with a vast history. Less than half the size of Texas, Italy is divided into twenty regions, each region possessing its own ethnic, cultural and dialectical characteristics. The differences from one region to another are sometimes so great that it is not uncommon to find Northern Italians, for example, who identify more with the French or Swiss that they do with Southern Italians.

Even though Italy is such a small country, it is comprised of many independent city-states which were united only as recently as 1861 (and to this date still not completely)!

Adjoined to Southern Europe and positioned rnithe Mediterranean between Asia and Africa, Italy has played host for centuries to merchant seeking shelter from the perils of unsafe commercial traffic. Phoenicians, Greeks, Turks and Egyptians, among others, all passed this way bringing with them new ideas and merchandise. Of course, Italy’s strategic location also made her an important area for military control. In addition to the barbaric tribes who invaded the area after the fall of the Roman Empire, military campaigns were also launched by the Vikings, Byzantines Arabs Spaniards, and in more recent times by the Austrians, Germans and French. From the 12th through the 15th centuries, however, the Repubbliche Marinare, the Maritime Republics of Genoa. Amalfi. Pisa, and Venice, ruled Italy. Their voyages further contributed to the dissemination of culture.

Geographically, Italy is as diverse as its history is varied. From the cold rainy Alps in the North to the hot, arid land in the South, this narrow peninsula is divided down the middle by the Apennines mountain range. The flat lands on either side fall almost immediately into the sea, creating gulfs and natural harbors of incomparable beauty.

Due to the historic and geographic evolution described above, Italy’s culinary tradition also evolved in stages, refining and blending aspects of many cultures throughout the centuries. Regardless of time or culture, however, invasions, robberies and power overthrows often left poorer conditions. The Italian people, using the humblest of ingredients, always strived to make a tempting meal and it is this natural ability and creativity that distinguishes the Italian people and their culture.