Parliament of San Marino
Basilica del Santo
On a September 3rd
over 1,700 years ago
San Marino is not only the oldest republic in the world, but also one of the smallest, covering just 61 km2. Legend credits the hermit Marino with founding the state; he is said to have settled in the remote area of Monte Titano around the year 300. September 3, 301, is considered the official date of San Marino's founding.
The earliest surviving documents date from the 8th and 9th centuries, and as early as 1243, a notarial deed attests to a res publica, that is, a communal political order based on democratic principles. An assembly of the leading families elected two consuls from among their ranks for a term of six months each, who exercised legislative power.
Mount Titano in San Marino
Just a few kilometers from Rimini, Monte Titano towers over the surrounding countryside. Perched atop it is the neutral microstate of San Marino, with its three distinctive towers visible from afar. The entire mountain, along with the historic town center situated on it, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008.
By Bus
: A bus runs nine times a day from Rimini (Piazzale Calcigni stop).
A round-trip ticket costs €4.50.
By car
: There are eight parking lots around the old town (cable car from Borgo Maggiore) (approx. €8 per day).
Endless panoramic views in San Marino
A lot of hype
and no sales tax
Tourism is the main source of income for the approximately 31,000 residents. Over two million day-trippers flood this microstate every year, mainly to shop. That's because there's no sales tax here! This, too, may be one reason why some Italians come here to keep their hard-earned euros safe...
Don't be put off by the hustle and bustle - there's plenty going on here. The old town is truly worth seeing, despite the many shops and bars! Crenellated walls guide you through narrow alleys to the neo-Gothic Palazzo Pubblico, where a picturesque changing of the guard takes place every half hour.
Panorama Tip
A walk to the three towers is also highly recommended. La Rocca (also known as La Guaita) is located at the highest point of Monte Titano and dates back to the 13th century. From here, you have a magnificent view of the entire surrounding area.
Via the Passo delle Streghe (Witches' Pass), you reach the middle tower - Torre La Cesta.
It takes another 10 minutes to reach the third tower - Torre Montale.
Have your camera ready - and enjoy the view!