Despite its small size of just 24 square miles, San Marino has managed to maintain its sovereignty thanks to smart diplomacy and its unique location.
Surrounded entirely by Italy, the country has never been absorbed into its larger neighbour. Over the centuries, it has resisted foreign control, including during the Napoleonic Wars and the unification of Italy in the 19th century.
San Marino’s government operates as a parliamentary democracy, but it retains some unique political traditions.
It has two heads of state, known as Captains Regent, who serve six-month terms – a system that dates back to the Middle Ages. This approach to leadership has allowed the country to maintain stability despite its size.
While San Marino is not a member of the European Union, it has strong ties to Italy and uses the euro as its currency. Its economy relies on tourism, finance, and manufacturing, with visitors drawn to its medieval architecture and stunning mountain views.
The historic centre of the capital, also named San Marino, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring well-preserved fortresses and narrow streets.
It will therefore come as no surprise that tourism is a major industry, with many visitors taking day trips from nearby Italian cities like Rimini and Bologna.
Key attractions include the three towers of San Marino, built on the peaks of Mount Titano, and the Palazzo Pubblico, the seat of government.
The country also has a number of museums, including one dedicated to its long history of coin minting and postage stamps, which are very popular with collectors.
San Marino is also known for its neutrality. Like Switzerland, it has avoided major conflicts, even managing to stay out of both world wars.
During World War 2, it briefly found itself caught up in the fighting, but it largely remained a place of refuge. The country is still committed to peace and diplomacy, rarely involving itself in international disputes.
The population of San Marino in 2024 was estimated to be around 35,436.
