The discreet charm of a Republic

More than seventeen hundred years of independence and
freedom, amid history and legend. These are the peculiar features of the world’s oldest Republic, a small piece of land that
clings to Mount Titano, in the heart of Italy. San Marino was founded in 301 A.D., as the legend tell us, thanks to Marino, a Dalmatian stone cutter who, to escape the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian, went up to Mount Titano and founded
a small community of Christians. The imposing Mount Titano overlooks the hills with the three Fortresses at the top giving
San Marino its best-known image. The setting sun makes a spectacular backdrop: a thousand colours that fade and mix
for hours creating a magic suspended space-time dimension. Since July 2008, San Marino has been enlisted in the UNESCO’s
World Heritage sites.
The historical peculiarity of San Marino is revealed in its ancient institutions, unique in the world, starting with the two Capitani Reggenti (the equivalent to a president or sovereign).
The first Regents were appointed in 1243 and the
institution is still in force today. The two Capitani Reggenti remain in office for six months and their institutional role corresponds
to that of Heads of State.
Every year, on 1st April and 1st October, a suggestive investiture ceremony is staged. San Marino boasts a tradition of great
hospitality. Right of exile has never been refused, whatever the condition and ideas of the refugee.