At Universal Removals we specialise in helping people moving to or from Italy. We are experienced in European removals and removals to Italy and we can also organise shipping for international removals from Italy and removals back to the UK.
Useful information if you’re moving to Italy
Italy has a rich and colourful history that features Romans, wars and art. Though people have lived in Italy for 200,000 years the country sprung to fame when the small agricultural area of Rome was founded in around 753BC. Rome was ruled over by seven kings over the next 200 years and the Roman Empire slowly grew by defeating neighbouring territories one by one. The Empire was powerful for the next eight centuries before finally breaking up in about 476AD, though the influence of the Romans is still evident today.
Another important period in Italian history is the Renaissance, which began in Tuscany in the 13th century. Renaissance culture spread throughout northern Italy and was at its height in the late 15th century. The Papacy, which had moved from Italy to France during Roman times, also returned to Rome during the Renaissance.
Italy has been invaded many times in its history, and The Italian Wars, a series of foreign invasions, began in 1494 and continued for decades. One of the biggest conflicts during this period was The War of the Holy League (1508 – 1516). Started by France, the Papal States and the Republic of Venice, this war soon involved every major power in Western Europe including the Kingdoms of England and Scotland.
In 1861 Italy because a unified nation as the various states of the Italian peninsula joined together to form the single nation we know as Italy. The first king of the newly formed country was Victor Emmanuel II of Savoy. Difficult times followed, including the First World War and a period of fascism under Mussolini (1922 – 1943). In 1946 the third king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel III (grandson of Victor Emmanuel II) was forced to abdicate the throne after public opinion forced a referendum between retaining the monarchy or becoming a republic. The king fled to Egypt where he died shortly afterwards. Back home, 54% of Italians voted in favour of an Italian Republic, thus bringing to an end the House of Savoy, which had been the longest reigning royal house in the world.
Italy is very hilly, with many mountainous regions, which means it is poor in natural resources. However, its people have contributed many great things to the world of art, including painting, music and architecture. Italy is rich in beautiful churches and palaces, and many of the most stunning buildings and bridges still retain the style of the Italian Renaissance period.
Removals to Rome
Rome is the capital of Italy and it is perhaps the most romantic city in Europe. With its narrow streets, wide piazzas and intricately detaileed gothic buildings, Rome is beautiful. Look behind the stunning facades and you’ll find a wealth of wonderful shops and restaurants. Rome also has many squares with water features, fountains and examples of fine sculpture.
Removals to Milan
Milan is brimming with history, but it is also perhaps the most stylish city in Italy. It has a reputation for leading the way in high fashion and design, and the best fashion shopping can be found in the Golden Quad area. However, Milan also has a more serious side to it, as Italy’s stock market is based in the city and there are also many important centres of business and finance. Milan’s architecture is impressive and varied, with everything from state-of-the-art office blocks and towers to Neo-classical Milanese palaces.
Removals to Naples
Located in southern Italy, Naples is the capital of the Campania region and it has a fascinating history. Naples was founded by the Greeks and expanded by the Romans and the story of its development is visible through the city’s architecture. The location is stunning too, as Mt Vesuvius rises on one side of the city and it is bordered by the Bay of Naples on the other. If you want an enjoyable day out the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are worth a visit.
Removals to Turin
Turin is famous for two very different things – the Turin Shroud, believed to be the cloth that wrapped the body of Jesus of Nazareth after his crucifixion, and the old car plant where thousands of Fiat motors were manufactured until 1982. The factory is now an ultra-modern shopping mall, though the original Fiat test track is still visible on the roof. In contrast, the city has many Baroque buildings waiting to be explored.
Removals to Palermo
Located on the north west of the island of Sicily, next to Monte Pellegrino, Palermo combines a unique Mediterranean character with the benefits of a coastal setting. It is one of the oldest cities in Italy, dating back to the 8th century, and the architecture is mainly Norman. Best explored by foot, visitors love wandering through the winding alleys and visiting the churches, palaces and bustling markets, and the Piazza Pretoria is a favourite with tourists.
Removals to Genoa
For those looking for the romantic side of Italy, the busy sea port of Genoa may seem disappointing, as it is largely industrial. However, a visit to the old town reveals narrow alleyways, beautiful churches and palaces. The aquarium and museum at the recently renovated old harbour are interesting places to visit, as is the Piazza de Ferrari, which has a stunning fountain.
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