History and Geography:
Where is San Marino located?
San Marino is located in Southern Europe, entirely surrounded by Italy. It is an enclave, meaning it is a country or part of a country that is entirely surrounded by the territory of another country.
What is the official name of San Marino?
The Most Serene Republic of San Marino (Serenissima Repubblica di San Marino)
When was San Marino founded?
301 AD, making it the world's oldest republic
How many citizens does San Marino have?
Approximately 33,000 (as of 2023)
Which mountain is San Marino located on?
Monte Titano
What is the highest point in San Marino?
Monte Titano peak, at 739 meters (2,425 feet)
What is San Marino's flag color combination?
Horizontal stripes of blue and white, with the national coat of arms in the center of the white stripe
What is the smallest country in the world, including San Marino?
The Vatican City is technically the smallest, with San Marino being the second smallest
Culture and Government:
What is the official language of San Marino?
Italian
What is San Marino's currency?
Euro (EUR)
What is the official religion of San Marino?
Roman Catholicism, although freedom of religion is guaranteed
What is the unique title for San Marino's Head of State?
Two Capitani Reggenti (Captains Regent), elected every six months
What is the official sport of San Marino?
Bowls
What is the national flower of San Marino?
Primrose
What is the national animal of San Marino?
Dog (Golden Retriever)
What is the motto of San Marino?
"Freedom I do bequeath to you on this condition, that you bequeath it to your descendants in turn" (Libertas perptuo manet, dum libertate fruimur)
Fun Facts and Quirks:
What percentage of San Marino's population lives in its capital city?
Over 50%
How many castles are there in San Marino?
Three: First Tower, Second Tower, and Third Tower (Guaita, Cesta, and Montale)
What famous composer wrote the national anthem of San Marino?
Giuseppe Verdi
How many stamps does San Marino release annually?
Around 50, making it a popular destination for philatelists
What is a unique souvenir many visitors purchase from San Marino?
Stamps and coins, which are legal tender in both San Marino and Italy
What is the name of San Marino's national airline?
San Marino Airlines (discontinued in 2018)
What is a popular local dish in San Marino?
Tortellini in Brodo (broth) or Passatelli (a noodle soup)
What is the annual event during which the Capitani Reggenti visit the President of Italy?
The Cavalcata dei Capitani Reggenti, a colorful historical parade
What is a unique tradition practiced in San Marino every September?
The Giochi dei Bastoni (Stick Games), a competitive medieval-style competition
What is the nickname for San Marino's national football team?
La Serenissima (The Most Serene)
Who is the only team San Marino's national football team has ever defeated?
Liechtenstein
What is a famous landmark in San Marino visible from miles away?
The Statue of Liberty replica on Monte Titano
What is San Marino's claim to fame in the music world?
San Marino boasts a rich musical legacy featuring renowned composers such as Francesco Maria Marini di Pesaro from the 17th century and Cesare Franchini Tassini from the 20th century (1925–2010). San Marino has taken part in the Eurovision Song Contest on eleven occasions since 2008, with the country making it to the final three times out of those eleven appearances.