San Marino

San Marino is the capital city of the republic that shares its name, located on Mount Titano at around 675 meters elevation, with stone houses and narrow lanes inside historic fortifications. Three prominent towers stand on different peaks of the mountain, connected by a walking path that runs through the entire old town.

This settlement started in the year 301 when the stonemason Marinus fled religious persecution under Emperor Diocletian and founded a Christian community on Mount Titano. Over the centuries the place developed into an independent commune and received its own constitution in 1600, which still forms the basis of the political system today.

The name comes from Marinus, a stonemason who founded a Christian community here in the 4th century and whose tomb lies in the basilica. Today you see residents and visitors walking through the cobbled lanes while shops offer local goods and souvenirs that attract tourists from Europe and overseas.

The climb from the parking area to the old town takes around 15 to 20 minutes on foot along steep cobbled paths that can become slippery when wet. Most buildings and viewpoints are accessible on foot, but narrow staircases and uneven surfaces make access difficult for wheelchairs and strollers.

The change of government happens twice a year on April 1st and October 1st, when two new Captains Regent take office for six months each. This ceremony takes place publicly on Piazza della Libertà in front of Palazzo Pubblico and draws many spectators who come to witness the installation ritual.

Location: San Marino

Inception: 301

Elevation above the sea: 675 m

Part of: San Marino Historic Centre and Mount Titano

Shares border with: Fiorentino, Chiesanuova, Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, San Leo

Website: http://sanmarinosite.com/castelli/sanmarino

GPS coordinates: 43.93640,12.44670

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:40