Fact 1: The oldest republic in the world
San Marino, known officially as The Most Serene Republic of San Marino, is the oldest republic in the world that has maintained continuous existence. It was founded on September 3, 301 AD by a Christian stonemason, Marinus, who sought refuge on Mount Titano from religious persecution. Ever since, it’s maintained its status as an independent and free republic.
Fact 2: Among the smallest countries in the world
San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe, after Vatican City and Monaco. With an area of just 61 square kilometers (about 24 square miles), it is slightly more than one third the size of Washington, D.C. The country is completely landlocked and surrounded by Italy.
Fact 3: No natural level ground
San Marino is located in northeastern Italy, on the border between the regions of Emilia Romagna and Marche. The terrain is rugged, featuring the mountainous landscapes of the Apennines. The country has no natural level ground; it is composed entirely of hilly terrain.
Fact 4: Unique political system
San Marino has a unique political system with two heads of state. This system has been in place since the 1200s. Both leaders, known as the Captains Regent, are elected every six months by the Grand and General Council. They serve similar roles to a president.
Fact 5: There’s no national debt
Believe it or not, San Marino is one of the few countries in the world with no national debt. The country has a budget surplus and a balanced budget, with revenues of approximately $300 million per year.
Fact 6: More vehicles than people
In San Marino, cars outnumber people! As of 2015, the country had 1,263 vehicles per 1,000 people. This car to population ratio is one of the highest in the world.
Fact 7: Not a member of the European Union
Despite being entirely surrounded by Italy and using the euro as its official currency, San Marino is not part of the European Union. However, it has an open border with Italy and an agreement with the EU to use the euro.
Fact 8: Home to the world's oldest constitution
San Marino boasts the world's oldest written constitution, which dates back to 1600. It was written in Latin and consists of six books.
Fact 9: Provides a national coverage for electric cars
San Marino has developed its infrastructure to favour electric mobility. Charging stations have been set up across the country, which means that electric car owners can travel anywhere within it without worrying about running out of power.
Fact 10: Crossbow Corps
One of the most high-profile symbols of San Marino’s history is its Crossbow Corps. This group has existed in some form for over 500 years, and despite crossbows no longer being of strategic importance, the Corps continues to exist as a ceremonial force.
Fact 11: Unique national holidays
San Marino celebrates two national holidays: the Day of St. Agatha on February 5 and the anniversary of its liberation from fascism on July 28. St. Agatha is the patroness of the Republic, credited with saving it from a Genoese attack in 1482.
Fact 12: Has its own F1 team
San Marino actually has its own Formula 1 team! Despite being a tiny nation, it’s home to the San Marino Formula 1 Grand Prix team, considered one of the most prestigious racing events in the world.
Fact 13: The highest rate of longevity in the world
San Marino has the highest rate of longevity in the world; its citizens have an average life expectancy of 83.5 years, slightly surpassing countries like Japan and Switzerland.
Fact 14: Literally translates to 'Saint Marinus'
San Marino translates directly as ‘Saint Marinus’ in English. Marinus was a stonemason from the which the republic takes its name.
Fact 15: Sammarinese cuisine
Despite its tiny size and proximity to Italy, San Marino has its own unique cuisine, which includes dishes like Nidi di ravioli (stuffed pasta), Fagioli con le cotiche (a Christmas bean and bacon soup), and a traditional cake called the Torta Tre Monti.
Fact 16: Unique calendar
San Marino has an additional month in its calendar. The Sammarinese, in an effort to make lunar and solar time coincide, added a thirteenth month: ‘The month of the harvest’.
Fact 17: The famous guards
The Guards of the Rock are a distinctive part of San Marino military, recognizable by their striking blue uniforms. They’re responsible for guarding the entrances to the City of San Marino and the Palazzo Pubblico.
Fact 18: Tourism is the main income
Tourism is central to the economy, accounting for more than 50% of its GDP. With its historic architecture and beautiful views, San Marino attracts more than 3 million visitors each year.
Fact 19: Plays host to a very spectacular medieval festival
Every year San Marino turns back the hands of time during the Medieval Days Festival. The event features historic parades, archery contests, and medieval markets. It’s one of the most anticipated cultural events in the republic.
Fact 20: Birthplace of many famous artists
Despite its micro size, San Marino has produced notable contributors to the arts, including Renata Tebaldi, one of the most famous operatic sopranos of the 20th century, and Enzo Simoncelli, a well-known abstract painter.