Provolone (pronounced [provoˈloːne]) is an Italian cheese that originated in Casilli near Vesuvius, where it is still produced in shapes varying from 10 to 15 cm (3.93–5.90 in) long pear, sausage, or cone shapes. Provolone-type cheeses are also produced in other countries. The most important provolone production region is Northwestern Italy. Provolone, provola, and provoleta are versions of the same basic cheese. Some versions of provolone are smoked.