Italy is a large country in Southern Europe, bordered by France to the northwest, Switzerland and Austria to the south, and Slovenia to the northeast. On all other sides, the Mediterranian Sea surrounds the boot-shaped land. The northern part is the country's most populated and developed portion. Cities like Turin, Milan, Bologna, Verona and Venice provide beautiful landscapes, like the Lake Como area, impressive mountains, such as the Dolomites and the Italian Alps, and first-class ski resorts, like Cortina d'Ampezzo and others. Central Italy is rich in history and art. The capital, Rome, boasts the remaining wonders of the Roman Empire, and some of the world's best known landmarks, such as the Colosseum. Florence, cradle of the Renaissance, is Tuscany's top attraction, along with nearby cities like Siena, Pisa and Lucca. Southern Italy is a less visited region, but it still offers great places to explore: the dramatic ruins of Pompeii, the romantic Amalfi Coast and laidback Apulia.