San Marino

301 CE (September 3, Wednesday): San Marino is traditionally founded by Saint Marinus

Middle Ages: San Marino develops as a self-sustaining monastic republic

1631 (May 4, Wednesday): First recorded earthquake in San Marino history

1797 (February 10, Friday): Napoleonic invasion of San Marino, which briefly brings the republic under French control

1862 (June 27, Friday): The construction of the first railway in San Marino begins

1907 (October 8, Monday): The Treaty of Friendship between San Marino and Italy is signed

1944 (September 1, Friday): The country is occupied by German forces during World War II, and later liberates itself

1991 (October 9, Wednesday): The Great Earthquake of 1991 causes some damage but no casualties

2000 (March 19, Sunday): The country establishes a partnership with the European Union, leading to closer ties

2020 (March 11, Wednesday): COVID-19 pandemic forces strict lockdown and health measures

2021 (October 28, Thursday): Wildfires cause significant damage to forests and natural areas in San Marino

2022 (July 6, Wednesday): A flash flood occurs, leading to localized flooding and infrastructure damage

Continent: Europe
Location: Landlocked, surrounded by Italy, situated in Southern Europe
Capital: City of San Marino
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro (€)
Population: ~34,000 (last updated: April 2025)
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)

Borders: Italy (completely surrounded by Italy)
Landscape: Mountainous terrain with rolling hills and limestone ridges
Major Rivers: No significant rivers
Major Mountains: Monte Titano
Deserts: None
Lakes: No significant lakes
Volcanoes: None
Highest Point: Monte Titano (739 m / 2,423 ft)
Lowest Point: 55 m (179 ft) (in the southern parts of the country)
Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters
Geological Features: Limestone hills, valleys, and coastal plains

Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Italian, with a small minority of Sammarinese and foreign nationals
Religion: Roman Catholic (predominantly)
Urban Population: ~60% (last updated: 2023)
Aging Population: ~19% aged 65+ (last updated: 2024)

Famous For: Historic medieval architecture, a constitutional republic, and being one of the world’s oldest sovereign states
Cuisine: Local cheeses, pasta, olives, and meats; also known for Sammarinese wine and liquors
Arts: Historic art collections, museums, and traditional crafts such as ceramics and lace
Sports: Football (soccer), cycling, and basketball

Economy Type: Service-based, with a strong emphasis on tourism and finance
GDP: Approx. $2.5 billion USD (last updated: 2024)
Major Industries: Banking, tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing
Key Exports: Manufactured goods, electronics, and clothing
Unemployment Rate: ~7% (last updated: 2024)
Economic Regions: Primarily tourism and financial services-driven economy

Government Type: Parliamentary republic
Head of State: Captains Regent (two heads of state) (as of April 2025)
Head of Government: Prime Minister (Secretary of State for Internal Affairs) (as of April 2025)
Legislature: Unicameral (Grand and General Council)
Constitution: In effect since 1600 (oldest constitution still in force)

City of San Marino: Historic center with medieval architecture, including the Palazzo Pubblico and the Basilica di San Marino
Monte Titano: Mountain with panoramic views, hiking trails, and the Three Towers of San Marino
Guaita: One of the three towers of San Marino, offering incredible views and historic significance
Cava dei Balestrieri: Archery museum showcasing San Marino’s medieval military history
Basilica di San Marino: Important religious and historical site dedicated to the patron saint