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The Republic of San Marino
Travel to San Marino ~ Hotels in San Marino ~ Villas in San Marino ~ Tours in San Marino ~ Towns and cities of San Marino


St. Peters in San Marino


The Palazzo Publico in San Marino
at night


Panorama view of San Marino

Most Photos on VisitsItaly are by Jesse Andrews. Please Contact VisitsItaly.Com for reproduction of any kind at: team@italyvacationspecialists.com

 


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San Marino Flag

Population: 27,336 (2000)
Area: 61 sq. km
Capital City:  San Marino
Official website: San Marino
Wikipedia: San Marino

Map: MapQuest

The Most Serene Republic of San Marino is a full-fledged country - a land-locked micro-state in Italy,  surrounded by the Italian Region of The Marche on its south and by the Region of Emilia Romagna on its north.

Read Wikipedia's
History of San Marino

It's mere existence as a country completely surrounded by another country upon which it is dependent in many ways, and in a world where size matters, suggests a more-than-interesting history.  Indeed, San Marino's history, with its origins in the Paleolithic Age, reveals a  remarkable evolution as a geographical and political entity.

Although San Marino has been occupied by outside powers from time to time (Romans, Longobards), its existence as a separate "country" has been generally recognized and protected since its founding in 391 BC.  Kings, emperors and popes, and in later times, modern nation states have, for their own reasons, and in their own interests, recognized the sovereignty of San Marino.  And so it continues to this day.

The area of San Marino, situated in a very rugged part of the Appenines, is only 61 sq kilometers, but within the territory there are nine towns, locally known as castelli, and of course, the city of San Marino itself.  San Marino city, which is the seat of government, sits impressively on and around the country's highest peak, Monte Titano (749 meters).

San Marino is certainly a destination that travelers to Italy should add to their "must see" list.  The mountainous landscape upon which local farmers grow olives and grapes and graze sheep, goats and cattle, or tend to fields of wheat and other grains, is thrilling, and the smaller towns and villages remain largely medieval in nature.

The historical center of the city of San Marino likewise has a relaxed medieval ambiance which invites a leisurely exploration of its streets and alleys.  There is an abundance of interesting architecture and art, the museum is fascinating, the dining is superb and the views from the city walls are stunning.

For a comprehensive list of
monuments, churches, events

and  festivals
visit San Marino's
official tourist website.

Car racing buffs will know about the San Marino Grand Prix.  However, the race does not take place in San Marino, which is considered too small to host the event.  Instead, it takes place about 100 kilometers to the northwest along the Via Emilia at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, an Italian town.

The other important industries in San Marino includes banking - not surprisingly given its national status - electronics, ceramics and food production (wine and cheese).  San Marino stamps are also sought after by philatelists around the world.

As you might expect, with over 3 million visitors every year, tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, accounting for over 50% of the GDP.  So, if you can, plan your trip to San Marino for April to June, or September to October, and enjoy the country without having to rub shoulders with masses of tourists. 


San Marino Coat of Arms

Travel directory

Transfers, Shuttles, Limos, etc

By Car: On the 3bis North from Rome, Perugia and Citta di Castello, to Sansepolcro then on the 258 to San Marino.   South from Ravello to Rimini, or north from Ancona to Rimini, then west to San Marino.
By Air: fly to Bologni, drive the SS9 to Rimini.  By train: branch line from Rimini.

Hotels, Villas, Agriturismos, apartments, B&Bs etc:

 

Tours and sightseeing

 

Parks and Gardens