Visit the oldest Republic in the world when on holiday in Le Marche and see for yourself the micro country of San Marino.
Founded in 301 by Marinus a Christian stonemason the Republic of San Marino is reputedly the oldest republic as well as the 3rd smallest European state. It stands on a hill which rises to 657 metres, landlocked, surrounded by Italy to which it is essentially aligned.
It is an interesting place to visit, surrounded by a wall with three fortresses (two of which are accessible to tourists, the Rocca and the Torre Cesta) it was added to the list of UNESCO heritage sites in 2008. You will find a myriad of small streets and walkways and you can even get your passport stamped at the tourist office to prove you have been there, done that.
Just a short drive from our holiday accommodation in Le Marche San Marino is quite an experience (also rather busy so it is worth getting there early) as they don't consider themselves Italians at all and are very proud of their heritage and command a certain respect.
The republic covers several kilometres around the capital and they even have their own football team. However it is the main citadel and mediaeval centre which is the main attraction and from there you can admire the views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic.
There are plenty of really good places to eat and you can enjoy the changing of the guard ceremony as well as duty free shopping. The Ferrari museum at the bottom of Monte Tinto is a nice bonus for car lovers.
Italy has many interesting sights and San Marino is certainly one of them. Take a look at our expanded range of holiday villas in Italy and find a base suitable for you to discover the region which interests you.