San Marino, officially Republic of San Marino alternate long-form name Most Serene Republic of San Marino, Country, central Italian peninsula, southern Europe. It is located near the Adriatic Sea but is surrounded by Italy. Area: 24 sq mi (61 sq km). Population: (2024 est.) 35,200. Capital: San Marino. Most of the people are Sammarinesi with a significant minority of Italians. Language: Italian (official). Religion: Christianity (predominantly Roman Catholic). Currency: euro. San Marino has an irregular rectangular form with a maximum length of 8 mi (13 km). It is crossed by streams that flow into the Adriatic Sea and is dominated by Mount Titano (2,424 ft [739 m]), on which the capital, the town of San Marino, is located, surrounded by triple walls. The economy is based on private enterprise and includes tourism, commerce, agriculture, crafts, and fine printing, particularly of postage stamps. San Marino is a unitary multiparty republic with one legislative house; its heads of state and government are two captains-regent. According to tradition, it was founded in the early 4th century by St. Marinus. By the 12th century it had developed into a commune and remained independent despite challenges from neighbouring rulers, including the Malatesta family in nearby Rimini. San Marino survived the Renaissance as a relic of the self-governing Italian city-state and remained an independent republic after the unification of Italy in 1861–70. It is one of the smallest republics in the world and may be the oldest one in Europe. At the beginning of the 21st century, its citizens enjoyed a high standard of living.
FAQs
What is San Marino short description? ›
San Marino is an enclave surrounded by Italy in Southern Europe, on the border between the regions of Emilia Romagna and Marche and about ten kilometres (six miles) from the Adriatic coast at Rimini. Its hilly topography, with no substantial naturally flat ground, is part of the Apennine mountain range.
What republic does San Marino claim to be the world's _____? ›San Marino claims to be the world's oldest continuous republic, with a constitution that dates back to 1600.
Why was San Marino never invaded? ›To sum the story short, it is because of Garibaldi. He took refuge there in 1849 so he granted their independence afterward; Napoleon III also protected them from annexation to the Papal State in 1853.
What is San Marino most known for? ›San Marino is said to be the world's oldest surviving republic. Tourism dominates the economy of microstate, which plays host to more than three million visitors every year. Postage stamps and coins - keenly sought by collectors - are important sources of revenue.
Why is San Marino important? ›San Marino was a refuge for over 100,000 civilians who sought safety on the passing of Allied forces over the Gothic Line during the Battle of Rimini, a monumental effort by the people of a country with a population of only 15,000.
What is an interesting fact about San Marino? ›Did you know that San Marino is the oldest surviving republic in the world? Established in 301 AD, this tiny nation has maintained its independence and self-governance for over 1,700 years. Its rich history and the preservation of its ancient traditions make San Marino a captivating destination for history enthusiasts.