San Marino¶

Area

Europe

The Most Serene Republic of San Marino is a land-locked enclave located in the Apennine Mountains of northern Italy. While not a member of the European Union, San Marino has special permission to use the Euro and to use its own designs on the national side of euro coins. With an area of only 62 square kilometres and about 30,000 people, San Marino is the third smallest of the six European microstates. San Marino is said to be the oldest recorded sovereign state and consitutional republic in the world, after being founded in 301 CE by a stonecutter named Marinus of Rab.

The Three Towers of San Marino -- appearing on the flag, coat of arms, and the coins -- are located on the three peaks of Monte Titano in the capital. The oldest is Guaita, constructed in the 11th century, followed by Cesta constructed in the 13th century. Montale (14th century) is the newest tower and is privately owned. All are part of the San Marino UNESCO World Heritage site.

San Marino's industries include banking, electronics, ceramics, wine, and cheese. Tourism accounts for less than 3% of the GDP. San Marino is highly stable with the lowest unemployment in Europe, no national debt, and a budget surplus.

San Marino on Wikipedia