The oldest in Europe, the state of San Marino, located on the slope of Monte Titano, is truly the pearl of the Apennine peninsula. Founded in the XIV century, it somehow managed to preserve its best traditions and customs, as well as the state system.
Today, San Marino is a fairly modern country with memories of the numerous battles for independence in which the indigenous population was involved.
The inhabitants of this amazing country are mostly descended from Italians, but they are strikingly different from their neighbors.
Even the most absent-minded tourist, once in San Marino, will note the rather calm disposition of the San Marinians, their friendliness and willingness to help.Most of all, residents appreciate and honor the centuries-old history and customs of their homeland..
The traditional costume of the representatives of this country is practically no different from the folk clothing of Italians. Previously, men wore light linen shirts and cropped trousers, while women preferred to dress in long skirts and tunics, while choosing darker tones.
As with most small towns scattered throughout northern Italy, life in San Marino is taking its course.
The population of the country, which according to the latest estimates is only about 32 thousand peopleis quite well off. And the numbers confirm this. GDP per capita was more than $ 62,000 per year.
The peace of a miniature state is guarded by its own armed forces, which include about 50 people. However, the residents themselves say that they can at any time defend their homeland.
The Republic of San Marino also boasts its own prison, which is only one prisoner.
He was provided with truly royal living conditions: lunches and breakfasts from the nearest restaurants of the city, as well as the availability of a TV room and library.
Sights
Speaking about the sights of this miniature country, it is worth noting that nine castle towns are located on its territory, which are also administrative centers: San Marino, Borgo Maggiore, Kienazuova, Domagnano, Aquaviva, Fatano, Fiorentino, Montejardino and Serravalle.
You can easily get from one castle to another: they are all connected by a network of roads scattered between high mountains and undulating hills.
Not a single tourist who visited San Marino will be able to leave empty-handed. He will certainly buy ceramics traditional for the commune, or world-famous stamps and coins with state coinage. Especially popular here, as well as in Italy, are local wines and liquors.
Today, one of the smallest countries in the world attracts more and more tourists. San Marino can rightfully be considered a state of magnificent castles and structures, which, despite their age, have retained their original form.
Just 25 kilometers away is one of the most popular Italian resorts among Russians - Rimini. You can get from Rimini to San Marino by bus.
It is obvious that San Marino should be included in the plan of a trip to Italy, because there is hardly a tourist who will refuse a delightful walk through the old city-state, which will retain the memories of the past.
