Welcome to
San Marino
The Republic of San Marino is a European microstate and one of the most extraordinary countries in the world. It is located in northern Italy, near the Adriatic coast, and is completely surrounded by Italian territory. With its legendary founding by Saint Marinus in 301, San Marino is considered the oldest republic in the world. At the heart of San Marino, Mount Titano rises 739 m (2,425 ft) into the air. It is part of the Apennine mountain range that runs from north to south across the Italian peninsula. In addition to the capital, which is also called San Marino and is located on Monte Titano, the republic includes eight other independent municipalities, known as “Castelli” (Italian for “castles”), covering a total of 61 km2 (23.55 sq mi). The largest settlement is Dogana in the municipality of Serravalle, with a population of just 7,000.
Facts
- Capital: San Marino
- Largest settlement: Dogana
- Official language: Italian
- Area: 61 km2 (23.55 sq mi)
- Population: 35,000 (2024 estimate)
- Independence from the Roman Empire: 3rd September 301 AD (traditional)
The oldest constitution in the world
The constitution of San Marino dates back to 1600, making it the oldest constitution in the world still in force today. Furthermore, it differs from most other state regulations in that it provides for the joint regency of two collegial heads of state. These are called Capitani Reggenti ("ruling captains") and are newly elected by parliament every six months. The system was introduced as early as 1243 and is derived from the separation of powers of the Roman Republic, in which the highest office was always held by two consuls. However, the Capitani Reggenti perform mainly representative duties.
San Marino is the fifth smallest internationally recognized state in the world. Of the other six European microstates, only the Vatican and Monaco have a smaller total area. Italian is the official language. However, the regional language Romagnol is also widely spoken among the local population.
The Three Towers of San Marino
The most famous attractions of San Marino are the three fortresses or towers “La Guaita”, “La Cesta” and “Il Montale”. They are named after the three mountain peaks of Monte Titano and also adorn the national coat of arms of San Marino, but in a simplified form. All three towers have a pentagonal ground plan and are connected by paths. The path between the first two towers is also called the "Witches' Pass" (Passo delle Streghe). It got its name from the legend that young women used to gather on the mountain to light bonfires and dance around them.
In 2008, San Marino's Historic Centre and Mount Titano were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since 1959, a cable car has led from the village of Borgo Maggiore to Monte Titano.
