The Republic of San Marino is a state, which is located on the Italian peninsula, it is situated on the eastern side of the Apennine Mountains and it is an enclave, which means it is surrounded by Italy. Its total land area is just 24 square miles and has a population of around 30,000; San Marino is the city and capital of the state. It is the oldest sovereign state in the world, which is a continuation of the monastic community that set up roots here back in September 301.
The landscape here is dominated by the Apennine Mountains and overall the terrain here is very rugged. Monte Titano (UNESCO World Hertiage Site) is the highest peak at 2,457 feet above sea level and there are no major bodies of water in this state. It is the third smallest country in Europe, the Vactican City and Monaco are smaller, and it has no ground level, with all of its land being comprised of hills.
Although it is a small country, is does have more than its fair share of tourists every year; it is estimated that somewhere in the region of 3 million people visit the city each and every year. Some of the main sights here include the Basilica di San Marino; it is the main church for the city and can be found in the Piazza Domus Plebis, which is on the north-eastern side of the city. The church is constructed in a neoclassical style with an impressive entrance that has eight Corinthian columns.
The Three Towers of San Marino is a popular tourist attraction and the towers are located on the peaks of Monte Titano. The first tower is called the Fortress of Guaita and is the oldest and probably the most famous, it was built in the 11th century and was used for a short time as a prison. The second is Cesta, which is situated on the highest of the mountains summits; the tower was built in the 13th century and is now home to a museum of honor for Saint Marinus. The third tower can be found on the smallest of the mountains summits and is called Montale, it was built back in the 14th century and unlike the other two, it is not open to the public.
There is also Kart Legend for those who want to speed around a track and a whole host of museums, cafes, restaurants and wine bars to indulge in. Whilst here, you really should try the local cake, known as La Torta Di Tre Monti, Cake of the Three Mountains/Towers, it is a layered wafer cake that is covered in chocolate.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in San Marino? Then below is a selection of Apartments in San Marino and villas in San Marino that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
