Indeed it is. Very different ships, even though not much different in size, & built to meet what at one time looked like a similar requirement. It looks to me as if the MMI did all they could to reduce the amphibious, & increase the aviation, potential of Cavour.
Italy has an even smaller & older dedicated Harrier-carrier than Spain, & three ships already in service with well decks (though they're pretty small). Perhaps this influenced them towards a more aviation-oriented ship. There's also the matter Santi brought up, of the large Spanish marine corps: Italy has a much smaller marine force, having traditionally concentrated on marine commandos, elite raiders. Perhaps another factor influencing thinking.
There's talk of the MMI getting another, larger, LPD or maybe LHD. Money is, as always, a factor, but it seems possible that a little creative accounting may occur. Perhaps the MMI didn't want to jeopardise future amphibious assets by buying a multi-role ship.
I'm not saying any of these is the, or even an, answer, I'm merely putting them forward as speculations.
