Europe is a treasure trove for collectors of microstates, featuring unique destinations like Andorra, Liechtenstein, Vatican City, Malta, San Marino, and Monaco, all recognized for their distinct size and population.
Among these intriguing locations, two are entirely surrounded by Italy: Vatican City and San Marino. Notably, Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, spans less than a fifth of a square mile yet attracts nearly 7 million tourists annually. In contrast, the 24-square-mile Republic of San Marino, situated 18 miles southwest of Rimini and 80 miles southeast of Bologna, sees significantly fewer visitors.
The history of San Marino’s independence is a fascinating tale. During the 19th century, Giuseppe Garibaldi sought refuge there while attempting to unify Italy. Given San Marino’s 1,500-year history of autonomy, it was agreed that it would remain unincorporated into Italy in exchange for granting refuge to Garibaldi. This historical incident cemented San Marino’s status as an independent republic.
The altar at the Basilica di San Marino features a statue of Saint Marinus, from whom the microstate derives its name. Photo Credit: Arnie Weissmann
San Marino is characterized by its remarkable medieval fortifications. The walled portions of the microstate rise steeply, culminating in scenic towers that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, including the Adriatic Sea, just six miles away on clear days.
The main attractions are the fortified towers, accessible for an 11-euro ticket (approximately $12). The first two towers encompass courtyards, prison cells, and museums, while the third tower allows visitors access to the grounds but not inside.
The Basilica in San Marino, though not as grand as St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City or many other Italian churches, is worth exploring for its impressive architecture, statuary, and historical relics.
Similar to other small nations, San Marino generates significant revenue through the sale of stamps and coins—the country features ten post offices. For those interested in a unique memento, the tourist office provides stamps for your passport at a small fee of just over $6.
San Marino distinguishes itself from other microstates through various attractions. Unlike Andorra, which is known for its duty-free shopping, San Marino’s shopping scene includes shops that sell firearms due to its liberal gun laws. Visitors can find everything from pistols and rifles to an intriguing array of knives and swords, alongside traditional souvenir shops.
In San Marino, shops selling firearms line the streets alongside toy stores and souvenir shops. Photo Credit: Arnie Weissmann
A surprising feature of San Marino is its distillery, producing notable local spirits such as vodka and amaro, an herbal liqueur. Visitors can find intriguing wine bottles adorned with labels of various world leaders, from historical figures like Hitler and Stalin to modern politicians like Obama and Trump.
In addition to the Stamp and Coin Museum, the city also hosts various quirky private museums. Highlights include the Museum of Curiosities, showcasing eccentric inventions, and the Museum of Medieval Criminology and Torture, which provides a grim look into historical punishments. Nearby, the Museum of Creatures of the Night—a celebration of vampires and werewolves—adds an unusual flair to the cultural landscape.
The main street entering the walled city showcases the architectural beauty of San Marino, with the Palazzo Pubblico prominently in view. Photo Credit: Arnie Weissmann
Culinary offerings in San Marino mirror those found in neighboring Italian towns, with grocery stores predominantly stocked with Italian products. However, local specialties such as olives, olive oil, and ricotta cheese are worth seeking out.
San Marino hosts a vibrant calendar of festivals, with events nearly every month, including food, music, and wine festivals. Other notable activities include car and bicycle races, jazz and classical music festivals as well as more eclectic events like a steampunk party, a board game convention, and gatherings for comic book enthusiasts and Vespa lovers.
Completing your collection of European microstates is an experience well worth the journey to San Marino. This independent republic, while nestled in Italy, provides a distinctive atmosphere away from the familiar, merging a focus on its rich history with intriguing cultural elements that make it a compelling destination. Despite its peculiarities, San Marino proudly lives up to its title: “The Serene Republic of San Marino.”
