35+ Fun Facts About San Marino

~ Interesting Facts About The Republic of San Marino, Deep, Dark Secrets About the Oldest Republic, and More! ~

Did you know that San Marino is a place so lawful and orderly that the country itself is oddly shaped into a rectangle?

Did you know that San Marino is in Italy??

Did you know that during Risorgimento, the unification of the various Italian city-states in the 1860s, Guiseppe Garibaldi allowed San Marino independence because of the gratitude he had towards the shelter provided by the tiny country?

And did you know that San Marino experiences about 60,000 tourists a year…a number that is almost double the country’s own population?

San Marino is surrounded by great Italian cities like Bologna, Florence, and Venice. Their presence in this region of Italy makes San Marino hard to notice. In fact, San Marino ranks high among Europe’s least visited states. In truth, most San Marino travel guides tend to mention these key cities as places to travel even though San Marino is a country in and of itself. It’s true; my own San Marino Tour guide kept repeatedly mentioning these Italian cities every once in a while. The Republic of San Marino is one of Europe’s microstates, surrounded by Italy’s regions of Emilia-Romagna and Marche.

Today, lets take a look at Fun Facts about San Marino. Also included will be deeply held secrets about the tiny country, as well as interesting facts I only came to know about while writing this short piece!

Andiamo!

Fun Facts About San Marino

Absolutely! Here’s an enhanced version of the thematic fact sheet about San Marino, including specific details like names, places, and historical contexts:

Political and Historical Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Ancient Foundation:

Founded on September 3rd, 301 AD by Saint Marinus, making it the world’s oldest republic. San Marino’s foundation story is celebrated annually on the founder’s feast day, September 3^rd. Also, San Marino recognizes Saint Agatha as a patron saint. Saint Agatha, revered primarily in her role as the protector against fire and natural disasters, is celebrated in San Marino on her feast day, February 5th.

2. Three Towers:

The national flag and coat of arms feature three towers—Guaita, Cesta, and Montale—each built on the three peaks of Mount Titano during the 11th to 13th centuries, symbolizing defense and vigilance. Guaita is the oldest, on the highest peak, and has more than once served as a prison. Cesta is a museum, while Montale is privately held.

3. Unique Political Structure:

San Marino is governed by the Grand and General Council with two Captains Regent elected semi-annually, a system designed to prevent concentration of power and ensure democratic governance since 1243. The Captains Regent preside over a 60-member strong council, enforce laws, and represent San Marino ceremonially. San Marino also possesses strict rules to avoid conflicts of interest, promoting a balanced and continuous oversight in government operations.

4. Female Presidents:

San Marino has had more female heads of state than any other country: 15 as of October 2014, including three who served twice.

5. Firsts in Democracy:

Boasts the world’s first written constitution, enacted in 1600, which significantly pre-dates other modern constitutions, outlining the government’s structure and civil rights.

6. Napoleon’s Respect:

In 1797, Napoleon Bonaparte admired the republic’s resilience and offered to extend its territory; San Marino respectfully declined to maintain its autonomy. Also, Napoleon ensured that San Marino was included in the Treaty of Tolentino, further securing its independence during a time when the map of Europe was being frequently redrawn.

7. WWII Safe Haven:

During World War II, San Marino maintained neutrality and became a refuge for more than 100,000 Italians from surrounding war-torn areas, despite its own limited resources. Today, San Marino has a series of commemorative medals and medallions like the “Medal of Remembrance,” which commemorates the republic’s efforts in providing asylum and relief during the harsh years of the conflict.

8. Historic Independence:

Despite being entirely surrounded by Italy, San Marino has maintained continuous independence since its foundation, a testament to its diplomatic skill and strategic alliances.

9. Gothic Government Building:

The Palazzo Pubblico, located in the capital city of San Marino, was constructed in 1894 and serves as the official government building, showcasing Neo-Gothic architecture. The three towers are Medieval, while interestingly, the Basilica di San Marino is Romanesque, having been built in 1836 on top of a church from the 7^th century. The Kursaal Congress Centre on the other hand is a modern blend of architectural thought.

10. Archaic Titles:

The use of historical titles such as “Captain Regent” connects present-day San Marino with its medieval governance traditions, enhancing its historical continuity. Other similarly archaic titles include the “Grand and General Council”, the “Arengo” or assembly of family heads that is now largely symbolic, and the “Congress of State”, a 10-member strong group of Secretaries of State heading their own administrative bodies.

11. Not an EU member State:

San Marino is neither an EU member state, nor enjoys the Schengen rights other European states enjoy.

That being said, you DON’T NEED a Schengen visa to enter San Marino as you’ll have gotten it entering Italy (San Marino has no airport), hence just like the Vatican City, you can visit San Marino without any passport control. This means, that for those travelers collecting passport stamps, you won’t get one unless you pay € 5 if you really need the San Marino stamp on your passport.

Economic and Geographic Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Tiny Size: With an area of just about 61 square kilometers, San Marino is one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated countries, showcasing effective urban management within limited geographical constraints.
2. No National Debt: San Marino proudly stands as one of the few countries without national debt, reflecting its prudent fiscal management and economic policies.
3. Tax Haven: Known for its favorable tax environment, San Marino attracts businesses and individuals from Italy and beyond, enhancing its economic profile.
4. Unique Postal System: San Marino’s postal system and unique stamps are significant sources of revenue and cultural identity, with collectors worldwide cherishing San Marinese stamps for their rarity and design.
5. No Airports: The closest major airport is Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini, Italy, about 16 kilometers away, affecting the accessibility but preserving local tranquility.
6. First Country with More Cars than People: This phenomenon in the late 20th century underscored San Marino’s high standard of living and its citizens’ mobility preferences.

Social and Cultural Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Tourist Haven: Annually, San Marino attracts numerous tourists, far exceeding its population, drawn by its historical sites, tax-free shopping, and picturesque landscapes.
2. Unique Cuisine: San Marino’s cuisine, like the Torta Tre Monti, is influenced by Italian culinary traditions yet maintains distinct local flavors and ingredients, celebrated during various food festivals.
3. Chess Enthusiasm: Chess is highly popular, potentially supported by educational programs in schools that encourage strategic thinking and competition, fostering a culture of intellectual achievement. To date, the per capita number of Chess Grandmasters in San Marino is the highest in the world!
4. Cultural Heritage in Music: San Marino’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, including its memorable entry with Valentina Monetta in 2014, highlights its vibrant music scene and cultural outreach.
5. Eccentric Festivals: Medieval days and knight tournaments, such as those held annually at Borgo Maggiore, showcase San Marino’s rich history and draw crowds interested in renaissance and medieval culture. Others include the winter Christmas Market, the Medieval Days, celebrated in medieval costumes and games, and the San Marino Ethnological Festival. Additionally, there is the Investiture of the Captains Regent on April 1 and October 1 following the election of the Captains Regent.
6. Public Statues: Statues throughout the country, such as the Statue of Liberty in the capital, not only decorate public spaces, but also serve to commemorate key figures and events in San Marinese history. Other notable statues include the Statue of Saint Marinus and the Monument to Bartolomeo Borghesi.
7. Official Language: While the official language is Italian, the locals speak Romagnol, a dialect particular to the Emilia-Romagna region.

Environmental and Scientific Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Mount Titano: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Mount Titano is central to San Marino’s identity, both as a symbol and as a natural preserve.
2. Rare Birds: The biodiversity of Mount Titano and surrounding areas includes several bird species unique to the region, attracting ornithologists and nature enthusiasts. These include the Peregrine Falcon, the Eurasian Sparrowhawk, and the Sammarinese Grey Mule. Unique or rare plant species found in San Marino include the Ophrys apifera or Bee orchid, and the Holm Oak.
3. Protected Astronomy: The law to protect the night sky was enacted to promote and preserve astronomical observation, making San Marino a favored spot for astronomers and stargazers. It is a recent law, enacted in 2017, and it aims at reducing light pollution, protect nocturnal animals, and encourage the community to actively protect the ecology of the country.

Unusual and Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Odd Laws: The peculiar law against slamming car doors was intended to reduce noise pollution and maintain public order, reflecting the community’s value on tranquility. Other weird laws include a Ban on Hypnotism, a Ban against the Wearing of Uniforms in Public, Restrictions on the Practice of Fortune-Telling, and a Prohibition on Bee-keeping.
2. Unique Military: The Military Corps of San Marino, including the Crossbow Corps and the Guard of the Rock, has ceremonial duties today but roots in the military traditions of medieval times.
3. Museum of Torture: Located in San Marino’s historical center, this museum offers insights into the grim aspects of medieval justice systems, drawing tourists with its macabre exhibits.
4. Philatelic Treasure: San Marino’s stamps are designed to commemorate historical events, cultural moments, and notable figures, making each issue a snapshot of San Marinese heritage.
5. Cryptic Freemasonry: The secretive nature of Freemasonry within San Marino adds a layer of mystique to its social fabric, influencing various aspects of its cultural and political life.
6. Intriguing Conspiracy Theories: Legends about hidden treasures, such as those supposedly left by Napoleon, fuel both local lore and tourist curiosity, adding an element of mystery to the historical narrative.
7. Citizenship: Abraham Lincoln has a honorary citizenship from San Marino.

Health and Longevity Fun Facts about San Marino

1. Longevity: The high life expectancy can be attributed to the Mediterranean diet prevalent in the region, excellent healthcare services, and the country’s overall high standard of living.
2. Good Cardio: As a country, San Marino is quite hilly, and the city of San Marino itself filled with stairs. Residents and tourists find themselves naturally drawn to cardio exercises, making the need for more focus on health unnecessary.

a bonus …

A One-Day Itinerary of San Marino

Morning:

• 9:00 AM: Start at the Tourist Information Office. It is conveniently located in the heart of the historic center, making it perfect as a starting point for obtaining maps and advice.
• 9:30 AM: Visit the Guaita Tower (First Tower). It’s about a 10-minute walk (500 meters) from the Tourist Information Office. You can spend some time exploring this ancient fortress while enjoying some spectacular and panoramic views of the area.

Noon:

• 11:00 AM: Walk to the Cesta Tower (Second Tower), which is located about a 15-minute walk (750 meters) uphill from Guaita. The route has scenic views, and leads you directly to the highest point of Mount Titano, where you can visit the Museum of Ancient Arms.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at Ristorante La Fratta. This restaurant is a 20-minute walk (1 km) back towards the town center. Enjoy a leisurely lunch after the descent with local dishes like Torta Tre Monti or traditional pasta with local wine.

Afternoon:

• 2:00 PM: Stroll through the historic center to the Palazzo Pubblico, which is about a 5-minute walk (300 meters) from Ristorante La Fratta. You can then visit the official government building and check out the Statue of Liberty and Piazza della Libertà.
• 3:30 PM: Explore the Basilica di San Marino, just a 2-minute walk (100 meters) from the Palazzo Pubblico. This makes for an opportune moment in the day to admire the neoclassical architecture and the artworks inside.
• 4:30 PM: Shopping and leisure walk through the nearby streets. The shops are concentrated around the historic center, making it easy to explore different venues within a short walking distance.

Evening:

• 6:00 PM: Sunset from near Montale Tower (Third Tower). This tower is about a 15-minute walk (650 meters) from the center of town. Enjoy the views around the tower as it is not open to the public.
• 7:30 PM: Dinner at Ristorante Righi. It’s a gentle 10-minute walk (500 meters) back to the town center from the Montale area. Dine on modern takes of Sammarinese and Italian dishes while overlooking the city lights.
• 9:00 PM: Night walk and departure. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the town center, soaking up the night-time ambiance of the beautifully lit historical buildings.