Answer:
The way Italy is makes it very hard to invade Italy form the north because of the Alps and the fact that Italy is surrounded by water (other than the north) also makes it hard to invade, as long as Italy has a good navy (and army) it will be hard to invade Italy from water and land. Italy is the second biggest farming country in Europe. Northern Italy's Po Valley provides good farm land for rice, wheat and other grains. Southern Italy grows fruits, olives and tomatoes, where irrigation is possible. Many areas of Italy also grow grapes. Italy is one of the largest wine producers in the world, so in terms in food Italy is good. The way Italy is it makes it a safe place from invading armies and is perfect for farming. Italy also a 1,500 lakes making water not an issue.