If you think this is the Italian version of Gossip Girl, think again! Though the image of teen drama seems relatively modest, "Baby" is anything but! The series follows Chiara and Ludovica, two teenagers who are seemingly worlds apart. But a thrilling experience bonds them together into a lifelong friendship. That experience, however, part of the underbelly of Rome. The city is, after all, home to some of the wealthiest men in the world. What kind of mischief two beautiful and sexy young teenagers will get into? Though it has garnered some controversy, "Baby" is a fun and intriguing series that shows the rough side of high-class Rome.
Source: Netflix
Now, if you want a bit of magic for your daily streaming, look no further than Luna Nera. Although this series shows a part of Italian history that's probably hidden and forgotten, it's still a fascinating show nonetheless. If you think Salem in Massachusetts was bad, wait till you see this show. Being the religious country that it is, Italy doesn't necessarily have a pleasant past in terms of practicing the faith. This series shows that toxic behavior at an extreme, as well as a romantic look at the beautiful opulence of the country's past.
Source: Netflix
Rome might be an exciting city, but "Suburra: Blood on Rome" isn't exactly set in the Italian capital itself. Although it takes place mostly in the glamorous city, the shoe is centered on a coastal area near the city of which there's an on-going battle between multiple criminal entities. Think classic mobsters, sketchy politicians, and celebrities with a dark side to them. It's a fascinating take on territorial disputes that almost feels Shakespearean in a way, but also incredibly modern and current at the same time. After a few episodes of this series, you might see Rome, and the rest of Italy, in a whole new light!
Source: Netflix
Do you know the name, Jorge Maria Bergoglio? It's alright if you don't. This guy doesn't go by that name anymore. Nowadays, he's known as Pope Francis. The current Holy Father, he's become one of the most beloved popes in human history. So much so that there seems to be a lot of fascination with his history. There's already been a critically-acclaimed film about him (albeit a fictionalized story), but the Italian Netflix series "Call Me Francis" shows his early years as a priest and bishop, The otherworldly struggles he went through in Argentina, all before becoming the religious icon that his today.
Source: Netflix
Although "Medici: Masters of Florence" is actually a British series, it does have an Italian dub on Netflix. And honestly, watching it with the dub is much more interesting. At the very least, it makes the series closer to the original story of its subjects. The Medici family was arguably the most powerful clan during Medieval Italy. Such was their prominence that they often invited enemies who want to strike them down and steal their power. This series depicts how the famous family faced such trials and tribulations head-on. However, the show did take a few artistic liberties, so if you're studying the Medici family, this isn't your best resource!
Source: IMDB
At times, the best way to experience a country is through the shows they present on international platforms. To really get to know Italy without traveling to the country itself, these Netflix shows might present some fascinating pictures for you!