I've spent 3 years of my life in Italy, and I could in one post get myself dawghoused for life for group attacks by pontificating on what doesn't work there, and how, and why. I could also list the things that really work there, and while true they would be worn clichés, with two exceptions.
The first is agricultural manufacturing in the north – no-one seems to know how they excel at that.
The second is game design. Of the six games that are consistently played at my local club, and have been for a long period, four are Italian: Impetus, Kings of War, the Song of Blades and Heroes family, and the Wings of Glory family. The remaining two are British and Anglo-French (being Black Powder and Saga).
That is of course anecdotal, and you can name any number of great systems that have a long-term following, mainly British, but the Italian contribution is impressive.
The designers are also wonderful, approachable folk who actively seek out dialogue with their players.
A special mention must also go to Mirliton SG, who are also lovely, lovely people.
These fine ambassadors make me forget the days and weeks lost at the Questura seeking the thrice-cursed Permisso di Soggiorno, and Trenitalia, and… I'd better stop before I write that dawghouse list.