According to tradition, the Republic of San Marino was founded in 301 A.D. by Marinus, a legendary holy man, native of Arbe in Dalmatia. During the middle-ages, the community grew and reached its current size by fighting. It often allied with neighbouring states and strengthened its institutional organisation.
The country occupies an area of 61 sq km in the heart of Italy between the Romagna and Marche regions, just a few kilometres from the Adriatic Riviera.
The State of San Marino, considered to be the oldest Republic in the world, is governed by its own laws and institutions, many of which date back to the communal period. Millions of tourists flock to the country for a visit and here find hospitality and a friendly welcome, along with a conspicuous heritage of stately buildings, monuments, museums, works of art, holiday sites and lots of shopping options.
At the top of Mount Titano, where the capital of the small country stands, are three fortresses dating back to ancient times. These are linked by walls along which visitors can stroll to the town below, which is enclosed by a circle of walls separated by various gates, bulwarks and keeps. Inside the town walls are ancient squares, buildings, museums, churches and houses of medieval origin.
Dotted around the mountain are the other eight "Townships" of the Republic, small quaint villages, residential areas and large industrial sites and shopping centres.
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