Every country has landmarks that have become synonymous with its name. In Italy, these landmarks include the Colosseum, the Milan Cathedral and the S. Peter Chapelle but also … the Fiat 500. The world’s most popular car, “The cinquecento,” is a best seller and a timeless icon of Italian style in the world. 

What began in 1900 Turin as an idea of Giovanni Agnelli, Fiat, short for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, remains one of the best selling cars in Europe for over 100 years. Fiat has enjoyed a captivating history that includes war, automotive innovation, and international conquest.

The first 500 was commissioned by Benito Mussolini in 1936 in an attempt to motorize Italy through a new car that was high quality yet affordable. Since then, the 500, in particular, has taken over the world as a style and cultural symbol of Italy. When you think of Italy and it's narrow cobbled stone streets or long winding roads of Tuscany, a Fiat is the car you imagine in the scene akin to a main character in the film. 

One could easily say that the love for Fiat is a direct reflection of Italian national pride. For more than a century, its clevel innovation has showcased its lineage in broad daylight. Fiats all ages are seen on roads, driveways and curbs throughout Italy and have captured hearts and attention worldwide. Student blogger, Ishita, poignantly expresses her admiration for the vehicle, which became the catalyst of her personal love affair, in a visual photo blog titled Italophilia. 

Read the full post here: Love Letter to the Fiat 500 Written By Ishita