Republic of San Marino nested within Italy

Getting from Assisi to the Republic of San Marino

I again opted to drive on country roads passing by Gubbio and Urbino. Both places are worth a visit on their own albeit they were not on my planned itinerary.

The drive took me some four hours partially due to some road construction work. But mainly because the stretch after Urbino was all about climbing and descending the various hill/mountain tops. Not to speak of the hairpin curves. So, not a good option for persons suffering from car sickness. Having said that, I enjoyed it as I passed through some great places.

Micro state nested within Italy

There is a reason I decided to visit the Republic of San Marino. I was intrigued but the fact that there is a tiny micro state of only 61 km2 nested within Italian territory. With some 33,000 people living there, it has the smallest number of inhabitants of all the countries of the Council of Europe. In contrast, it has the highest number of vehicles/capita.

One of the world’s wealthiest countries

It is one of the wealthiest countries of the world with a per capita GDP of US$55,449. It has the lowest unemployment rate in Europe, no national debt, and a surplus budget.

Oldest constitutional republic

San Marino claims to be the oldest constitutional Republic. It is governed by a 60-member Grand and General Council elected every five years. Every six months, two Captains Regents of opposing parties are elected to rule the Republic.

Collectors of Euro coins

San Marino is part of the Euro zone and has its “own Euros” which are rare to find outside of San Marino and actually a collector’s item.

Main agricultural products are wine and cheese while all other goods are imported from Italy.

The three towers

Approaching San Marino, the first thing I noticed were the three towers on the three peaks of Monte Titano. The Guaita is the oldest of the three towers. Then there is the 13^th century Cesta tower. And finally the 14^th century Montale tower. They form part of the code of arms of the Republic and are depicted on the the flag.

Getting into San Marino

Although I entered a different country, I did not cross any formal border crossings. Just a sign welcoming visitors and indicating that I was now in the republic of San Marino. It said “Welcome to the Antique Land of Liberty”. For whoever is interested, is it possible to purchase officially cancelled stamps for the passports at the tourist office.

Getting rid of the car

And here I was again with a problem that I have (nearly) gotten accustomed to in this road trip. How to get near the hotel in the historical center and what to do with the car. But it was less painful than expected. I was lucky to find an empty spot in the parking P6 which is only some 100 meters from the hotel. The hotel gave me a card which cost me 4 Euros for a 24-hour parking of the car.

My hotel

I had booked my accommodation in the historic centre. It recently had refurbished the top floor (I could literally smell the “new”). My room was facing the valley and had the best view imaginable. I would recommend room numbers 32, 33, 34 to enjoy the same if you decide to overnight there.

Palazzo Publico

In the picture you see the official government seat of the Republic of San Marino.

Piazza de la Liberta

The government seat is located on the main square of the City.

Nice place to have dinner

I had dinner in this square. It offers an amazing view onto the valley and the sea. And the sunset viewed from here is amazing. I ordered grilled Orata fillet (fish of the Mediterranean). It was really fresh and tasted excellent. Surprisingly, the bill was very moderate.

Main church of San Marino

The Basilica of San Marino is located on Piazza Domus Plebis and dedicated to Saint Marinus, the founder of the Republic.

Around 1800, it was built on the remains of an earlier church which dated back to the 7^th century.

Getting there

Public transportation is limited here. There is a regular bus service from Rimini. But more exciting is the 1.5 km aerial tramway running from Borgo Maggiore to the top of Mount Titano at intervals of about 15 minutes.

Otherwise, if travelling by car, there is a good highway that connect rimini to San Marino

CONCLUSION

Overall, I would say that San Marino is really quite and very relaxing and worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.

The few tourists that I saw in June (might change in high season) were mainly visiting for the day.

Initially, I thought I would have to abundantly fill my wallet in order to stay there for a night but the contrary was the case.

Walking around the historic part, I found a number of shops selling perfumes and all sorts of sunglasses for up to 40% cheaper compared to the rest of Europe.