Cultivation of weed in Italy has been undergoing changes over the centuries and this can be dated back to roman times.  This is especially important because the ancient Romans used hemp ropes and according to history, there were cannabis plants in the Italian peninsula that all date back to the bronze age. 

However industrial growth of cannabis and the production of hemp fiber took place from the age of sail or during the maritime republics.  This process continued over the years and during the 20th century with the introduction of synthetic ropes, the idea changed with many people investing in other economic activities. I

t is important to note that currently, marijuana is only legal in Italy for medicinal purposes only. However, the government has put strict guidelines on the use of this product.  Possession of a small amount of marijuana for personal use is considered a misdemeanor and it usually attracts fines. 

Nevertheless, the country has undergone tremendous changes in recent years and people in the country and the laws and legislation have been changing to allow the growth of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

In 2014 the country introduced a law that grouped marijuana as a less dangerous drug. This decriminalization has led to more research being conducted on the different ways of using cannabis to cure pain from severe ailments. 

The country’s population is progressive and many people do not see is a threat as it is legal in some parts of Europe and South America. However, if you are found with marijuana for recreational use you are likely to be fined or face prison time.

Marijuana laws in Italy

Weed in Hanava

The Italian marijuana laws have still not legalized marijuana and it is important to understand that you should not carry or use the drug anywhere in the country.  The law is interpreted differently depending on the region that you are going to visit. 

While in some regions you may be charged a smaller fine, in others you might be charged hefty fines and a longer jail time.

If you are a traveler, it is important that you do not contravene the laws of the country that you are visiting because it could result in the confiscation of your travel documents and hefty fines.

Further reading: Weed laws in France

According to the laws, 1.5 grams of marijuana is defined as the maximum amount that will warrant arrest. 

Anything below this amount will result in a smaller fine. However, it is important that you do not misinterpret this to mean that you are allowed to carry marijuana anywhere in Italy.  One of the most dangerous things that you can try is to sell marijuana in Italy.

This is a bad idea is it is punishable by law by up to 80,000 euros and jail time. The THC content of the marijuana that you are going to be allowed for medical purposes is something that has less than 0.5% of THC. 

You will realize that cannabis, marijuana, and weed are often used interchangeably as it means the same thing.   Cannabis usually refers to the whole plant while marijuana is specific to the products that can be processed from seeds, stem, and leaves. Weed or pot is a slang term that is used to refer to marijuana hence the use of the three names interchangeably.

Medical marijuana in Italy

Medical marijuana in Panama

If you are visiting Italy, it is important to note that medical marijuana is legal in the country and you will find clinics that sell light cannabis.

However, it is essential to understand that you should always have a prescription from a certified physician. 

The country has continued to enact laws that are meant to enhance the cannabis industry for medicinal purposes.

The transition from the Ministry of Health is mandatory and it is important to know that it cannot be sold or transferred to anyone without a prescription from a certified medical practitioner.

Cultivation of marijuana in Italy

Medical marijuana

The cultivation of marijuana in Italy is only allowed for people who are certified and are given a license by the Ministry of Health. It is important to note that this cultivation of marijuana is a declaration of what plant species you are going to plant, as well as the amount of THC.

It also shows the details of the amount of marijuana that is going to be planted, as well as the means of storage and transportation.

If you are visiting Italy and you want to purchase your own, it is important that you go to a certified physician who is going to recommend you or give you a prescription where you can purchase the product. It is important to note that the only specialized pharmacies that are allowed to sell marijuana are in Italy.

Recreational use of weed in Italy

Perhaps this is one of the most important things that you must understand, especially if you are going to visit Italy for the first time. Cannabis for recreational use is illegal and you are not allowed to carry any amount under Italian laws.

However, for people, people who have a prescription can purchase them in pharmacies around the country. It is important to understand that the THC levels of the marijuana sold in pharmacies around early are usually low, about 0.2 %

There is no proper regulation of CBD in Italy, CBD is a substance that is known to have neurological activity and it was initially included in marijuana products. There is continued discussion about the medicinal use of marijuana in the industry in Italy, and it is essential to note that while it is illegal, medical marijuana is accepted in Italy. Other supplements that are based on CBD are usually used under the specification of the European Commission and regulations.

The authorities in Italy do not prevent the use of CBD in cosmetics.

When it comes to the medical industry, some of the CBD and cannabis products that are used include topicals, suppositories, eye drops, edibles, syrup, capsules, and resins, among others.

All these medical products are usually derived from hemp and the cannabidiol oil should be half less than 0.6% of THC.

How do Italians view marijuana?

Over half of the population in Italy does not have a problem with the legalization of marijuana. It is important to know that many of the people who want the product regulary are youth and people below 40 years.

Currently, the regulations that are in place are meant to aid in the legalization of marijuana in Italy. However, in these areas marijuana is seen as a drug and you should avoid such places or not carry any cannabis with you.

Aurimas Bio

Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect.