San Marino

San Marino is the world's oldest republic, a microstate with under 40,000 inhabitants and 24 square miles of territory, and stands perched on Monte Titano, a cliff where the Apennine Mountains meet the Adriatic Sea.

San Marino's lady liberty. The city's symbol is its three distinct towers that command the cliff-face.

The Palazzo Pubblico, the city's town hall. San Marino was founded as a monastery in 301 A.D. and developed as a Republic over time. It enshrined its constitution in the 16th century, making it the oldest constitution still in effect.

To the east you can see Rimini and the Adriatic Sea.

Guaita is the first tower and was built between the 11th and 15th century.

It was reinforced to defend against conquest by the Malatesta family, who ruled nearby Rimini.

Cesta is the second tower located on the highest point of Monte Titano. It was built in the 13th century.

San Marino also had democratically elected fascist and communist governments when they were en vogue.

Sammarinese war regalia

Cannons from the Naples foundary

Cesta tower houses a medieval armory

Montale tower, built in the 14th century, is the smallest tower.

Cats love San Marino

Rose petal risotto from Antica Trattoria Jole

Another view you just can't beat. San Leo Fortress is somewhere off in the distance.