Actually, Greeks colonized (populated) southern Italy in very large numbers, about the same time Celtic tribes were colonizing the northeast end of the boot. Coastal cities like Naples, Reggio, and Syracuse were considered Greek cities. They viewed it as the "new world", much the way europeans viewed America in the early 20th century. As far as mixing, I think you meant the Normans/French or Spanish? A little OT, but interesting to know the history.