People
In a country as young and disjointed as Italy, it's hard to make accurate generalizations about just what constitutes an average Italian. Today's Italian population (the current count is about 57,910,000) is an amalgam of many races, both ancient and modern. In the far northern districts, the population reflects both German and French ancestry and culture, the result of both proximity and a long history of foreign occupation. In the south, the population reflects a dual Spanish and Arab heritage. In the populous central districts between Rome and Milan, each city tends to claim a citizen's first allegiance. Travel at all through the country and you'll quickly lose any stereotype about Italians.However, some characteristics seem to typify many Italians. In general, Italians are outgoing, even garrulous. Family ties remain very important to Italians, and the animated dynamic of most Italian families is the cornerstone of the larger, equally effusive and energetic vitality that Italians often bring to social situations and public life. Italians are also capable of great and multiple enthusiasms, be it a passion for soccer, fine food, the opera, politics, or stylish possessions. A passionate interaction with life is one of the hallmarks and endearing traits of the average Italian.
Despite Italy's diverse heritage, though, there's no doubt that the place has nurtured some of the world's most influential and important cultural figures. Italians have particularly enriched and benefited science and the arts. From Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael to Amedeo Modigliani, Italy has produced some of the most important painters in the history of Western art. Italians, of course, have also greatly benefited the realm of music, particularly in the fields of opera and orchestral music. Verdi, Puccini, and Monteverdi are among Italy's famous composers and musicians. Italian motion-picture makers include Federico Fellini, Bernardo Bertolucci, and Luchino Visconti; Italy has also produced some of the screen's most enduring stars, including Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni.