Is it because golf is not so much a hit in Italy? You might find this question a bit perplexing as you walk along the green hills of Tuscany or north Lazio. Or while on the shore enjoying the sun and blue of the summer.
This isn’t to suggest that Italian golf cannot be played or that there are not good courses. Tarquinia country Club, located in beautiful countryside just an hour from Rome Fiumicino, is a good example of all that Italy has for golfers.
The sport isn’t as popular in Italy, however, or elsewhere. Just 12 courses were discovered in Lazio’s region of Italy, which has a population exceedingly large at over 5 million. A search similar for Irish courses revealed hundreds.
Can this also be explained as an Italian lack of interest in the sport? It could be due to a difference in personality or national mentality. Italians do not have the most patience. The long hours required to finish a round may strain their ability to walk in peace and quiet for extended periods of time. The relaxation of golf is well-known. It could also be the case that Italians are more drawn to high-tempo, fast-paced sports than those meant for relaxation. Is it possible that the Italians have a sufficient level of relaxation to be able to unwind without any need for a sport?
You can loosely group possible explanations under the social/economic heading. It is common for golf to be used widely in established countries as a way of building business and social contacts. Italy has a long history of culture and traditions that is respected. So it is not surprising that the country’s most advanced social habits, which have been passed down over time, will likely be lost to newer practices.
Italy is also very densely populated. Because of this, there is great pressure to use any land that is not underutilized for producing the huge amount of grapes, tomatoes and olives needed.
Notable is the fact that many golf-loving countries are dependent heavily on tourism. In order to make the most of additional tourists coming to their country, they were willing to spend large amounts on courses and other amenities. Although tourism is a major part of the Italian economy, people who are planning to vacation there tend to be more drawn to Italy’s unrivalled cultural heritage and architecture.
It is hard to pinpoint a single reason for why Italy isn’t more popular with golf, but there are likely a combination of these factors that has led to slower adoption in Italy.
Good courses can be found for those who travel to Italy to play golf. The Tarquinia Country Club offers stunning views over the Maremma area from Rome’s international airports. It is also close to the beach.