San Marino - the World’s 5th Smallest Country …



DSC_0023We have arrived in San Marino! Recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, this country is the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the word, founded in September 301 AD.  Its constitution was enacted in 1600 AD and is the world’s oldest constitution still in effect.
  
Carving out a small patch of land, surrounded on all sides by Italy, DSC_0151San Marino’s fortified walls, towers and gates remain intact. Here Austin is gaining some perspective of what it must have been like to wander along this fortified town hundreds of years ago, while Danielle looks on from the cobble stone street below.

DSC_0045The Basilica del Santo is built on the site of the first Christian monument in San Marino. Some of the original building remains, including its 17th century bell tower.



Overlooking the city is Mount Titano. Carved out of the DSC_0063mountain are ancient fortresses which were used as guard towers in the 11th century and later were used to hold prisoners. You have to agree, it wasn’t all bad for the prisoners held here – they did get to enjoy a terrific view of the city!

DSC_0078Before wrapping up our all to brief visit to San Marino, we stopped for some pasta and tiramisu. From our view we could see the lights of Croatia, San Marino and Italy. Danielle said she couldn’t imagine a place this beautiful existed!  

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