Almost unprecedented in coast cities, or almost such, as Rome.
Some pictures attacched. Of course, all snow is gone now.

Mountain cities located in the middle of the peninsula, though, get snow every year and temps way below zero, usually (-10 ~ -20). Like you said, they are prepared. That's not a big deal. (So I am afraid the mediterranea reputation is way better than reality. Even though, I love cold weather
But only 100 Km away, instead, in Rome... Guys it took me two hours and half to drive home from the office, a drive entirely within the city, less than 10Km. Supermarkets were full of people buying food for the next week, just in case. Some people walking in the streets wearing ski outfits... Crazy.


P.S.: Is it by design that only two out of three attached pics get a preview?