Surrounded by Italy, San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world and third smallest in Europe, following the Holy See and Monaco. Believed to be the oldest surviving republic, tradition states a stonemason named Marinus founded the country in A.D. 301. Mount Titano dominates the rugged mountain terrain, three fortresses perched on its slopes looking toward the Adriatic Sea.
Tourism is the main source of income for the country and its less than 30,000 residents. More than three million visitors come each year to see the Guaita, Cesta and Montale fortresses, the Palazzo Pubblico, and numerous art and history museums. Additionally, “Medieval Days” transform the various districts in the historic city center for a week each July to pay tribute to medieval tradition with clarions and crossbows, processions and flag demonstrations and more than 500 people dressed in historic costumes. Musicians, jugglers and acrobats move through a medieval market with shops selling medieval crafts and restaurants serving the specialties of the era. Crossbowmen were the heart of the republic’s defense during this time and continue to be a part of San Marino’s army, albeit ceremonially, putting on demonstrations in medieval uniforms for several festivals.