Famous Expats in Italy

Part 1: Introduction to Expats in Italy

Italy is a country that has always been known for its culture, food, history, and art. It's no wonder that it has become a popular destination for people from all over the world to visit and even live. Many of these people are expats who have made Italy their new home. Expats come from all walks of life, and some of them have even become famous for their contributions to Italian culture.

In this three-part article, we will explore some of the famous expats in Italy, their backgrounds, and the impact they have had on the country. From writers and artists to politicians and entrepreneurs, these individuals have all left their mark on Italy in one way or another.

Part 2 will focus on expats in the arts, including writers, painters, and filmmakers. Part 3 will look at expats in other fields, such as politics, business, and science. But first, let's start with an overview of expats in Italy.

Who are expats?

Expats are individuals who choose to live outside of their home country for an extended period. This could be for work, retirement, or simply a desire to experience a new culture. Italy has long been a popular destination for expats, with many drawn to the country's warm climate, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

According to recent estimates, there are over 5 million expats living in Italy, making up roughly 8% of the country's population. These expats come from all over the world, with the majority coming from other European countries such as the UK, Germany, and France. However, there is also a significant number of expats from North and South America, Asia, and Africa.

Why do people choose to become expats in Italy?

There are many reasons why people choose to become expats in Italy. For some, it's a chance to experience a new culture and learn a new language. For others, it's an opportunity to pursue a career or start a business in a new country. And for many, it's simply a desire to live in a place with a high quality of life and a slower pace of living.

Italy has a lot to offer expats, from its world-renowned cuisine and wine to its stunning architecture and art. The country is also home to many international schools and universities, making it an attractive destination for families with children.

Another draw for expats is Italy's relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries. While some of the major cities like Rome and Milan can be expensive, smaller towns and cities can offer a more affordable lifestyle.

Conclusion

Expats have become an integral part of Italy's cultural fabric, contributing to the country's diversity and enriching its cultural heritage. In the following parts of this article, we will explore some of the famous expats who have made Italy their home and the impact they have had on the country.

Part 2: Expats in the Arts

Italy has long been a hub for creativity and artistic expression, and many famous expats have contributed to this legacy. From writers and painters to filmmakers and musicians, these individuals have made significant contributions to Italy's cultural landscape. In this part of the article, we will explore some of the most famous expats in the arts who have made Italy their home.

1. Henry James

Henry James was an American writer who spent a significant portion of his life in Italy. He first visited the country in the 1860s and fell in love with the culture and people. James would go on to write many of his most famous works while living in Italy, including The Portrait of a Lady and The Ambassadors. His writing often explored the tensions between American and European culture, and he was known for his keen observations of human behavior.

2. Cy Twombly

Cy Twombly was an American painter and sculptor who spent the last few decades of his life in Italy. He was drawn to the country's rich history and culture, and his work often reflected these influences. Twombly was known for his abstract expressionist paintings and his use of unconventional materials like chalk, oil paint, and crayons. His work can be seen in museums and galleries around the world, including the Cy Twombly Gallery in Houston, Texas.

3. Francis Ford Coppola

Francis Ford Coppola is an American film director and producer who has lived in Italy for many years. He first visited the country in the 1960s and was struck by its beauty and culture. Coppola went on to make many of his most famous films in Italy, including The Godfather series and Apocalypse Now. He is also the owner of a winery in the Tuscan region of Italy, where he produces his own wines.

4. Salman Rushdie

Salman Rushdie is a British Indian writer who has lived in Italy for many years. He first visited the country in the 1980s and was immediately drawn to its culture and people. Rushdie has written many books while living in Italy, including The Enchantress of Florence and The Ground Beneath Her Feet. He is known for his lyrical prose and his exploration of themes like identity, religion, and politics.

5. David Chipperfield

David Chipperfield is a British architect who has made a significant impact on Italy's architectural landscape. He first moved to the country in the 1980s and has since designed many buildings and structures in Italy, including the Valentino flagship store in Rome and the restoration of the Procuratie Vecchie in Venice. Chipperfield is known for his minimalist style and his attention to detail, and his work can be seen in cities around the world.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the many famous expats who have made Italy their home and contributed to its artistic and cultural legacy. Whether through literature, painting, filmmaking, or architecture, these individuals have left their mark on the country and enriched its cultural heritage. In part 3 of this article, we will explore some of the famous expats who have made an impact in other fields, such as politics, business, and science.

Part 3: Expats in Politics, Business, and Science

Italy has also attracted many expats who have made an impact in fields beyond the arts. From politicians and business leaders to scientists and academics, these individuals have brought their expertise and experience to Italy, contributing to its economic and social development. In this part of the article, we will explore some of the most famous expats in politics, business, and science who have made Italy their home.

1. John Elkann

John Elkann is an Italian-American businessman who is the chairman of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). He was born in New York City but has spent much of his adult life in Italy, where he oversees the family's business interests. Elkann is also involved in various philanthropic initiatives and has been recognized for his contributions to business and society.

2. Emma Bonino

Emma Bonino is an Italian politician and activist who was born in Bra, Italy, but spent much of her early life abroad. She has worked for various international organizations, including the United Nations, and has been an outspoken advocate for human rights and women's rights. Bonino has served as a member of the Italian parliament and has held various government positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs.

3. Mario Draghi

Mario Draghi is an Italian economist and banker who served as the governor of the Bank of Italy from 2005 to 2011 and as the president of the European Central Bank from 2011 to 2019. He was born in Rome but spent much of his career abroad, working for organizations like the World Bank and Goldman Sachs. Draghi is known for his expertise in economics and his role in managing the European debt crisis.

4. Rita Levi-Montalcini

Rita Levi-Montalcini was an Italian neurologist and Nobel laureate who was born in Turin, Italy, but spent much of her career in the United States. Levi-Montalcini was known for her groundbreaking work on nerve growth factors and her contributions to the field of neuroscience. She was the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine and was a symbol of women's achievement in science.

5. James Bradburne

James Bradburne is a British museum director who has lived in Italy for many years. He has worked for various cultural institutions in Italy, including the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan and the Palazzo Strozzi in Florence. Bradburne is known for his innovative approach to museum management and his commitment to making art accessible to everyone.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the many famous expats who have made Italy their home and contributed to its economic, social, and cultural development. Whether through business, politics, or science, these individuals have brought their expertise and experience to Italy, enriching its society and contributing to its growth. Their stories are a testament to the opportunities and possibilities that await those who choose to make Italy their home.