Composite Image: Italy

The portion of Italy shown in this image comprises the "toe portion" of the bottom of Italy's iconic boot shape. This shape makes Italy one of the most easily recognized countries in the world. The "boot" is a peninsula that stretches 760 miles into the Mediterranean Sea. The toe portion is home to high mountains where snow lingers until the end of May. Unlike its surroundings, the area remains home to an abundance of wildlife and greenery. Due to the lack of development, the region also boasts the cleanest water of the entire Italian coastline.