Cassino, Italy

This sleepy valley town in southern Italy has a population of just 35,092, but its history is anything but small-scale. Cassino is best known as the site of the bloody Battle of Monte Cassino during World War II, which reduced much of the city to rubble. Even today, the economy remains heavily dependent on the automotive industry, leaving it vulnerable to economic downturns. And with a climate prone to chilly, foggy winters, the weather can be a persistent headache. Still, Cassino does offer a university, historic sites, and natural beauty - making it a reasonable option for those seeking a quieter pace of life in Italy, if they can overlook the bureaucratic hassles.