Streets of the World

June 25, 2025: San Marino

written by

Brenda

Today is the day that we storm all three San Marino castles but first, here are some facts about San Marino.

  • The Republic of San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe. Not only that, it is the oldest republic in the world!
  • The territory is divided into 9 districts called ‘castles’. Each castle has its own flag.
  • The defense of the walls and of freedom in the distant past was entrusted to crossbowmen.
  • The City of San Marino and Monte Titano have been a UNESCO heritage site since 2008.
  • Despite neutrality, the Republic was bombed with over 250 bombs that killed 63 people in WWII.
  • Abraham Lincoln, honorary citizen in a letter dated May 7, 1861, wrote to the Captains Regent: “Although your domain is small, nevertheless your state is one of the most honored in all of history”.
  • The Changing of the Guard takes place multiple times every day in the summer.

Our children reminded us that stamps and coins from San Marino were hard to come by when they have a population of only 34,000. We sent postcards to our four daughters and their families. I am not sure how long that will take. A postcard stamp to the USA costs $3.

People all over the world have been communicating remotely by writing. At first, letters were carried on foot, then on horseback and finally a coach. However, a revolution began when the stamp was created.

We took a quick look at the Coin and Stamp Museum.

The displays show an impressive array of the different denominations of San Marino coins over the years.
Some of the displays showed giant versions of the coins where you could more easily see the details.
These stamps depicted
President Franklin Roosevelt.
This is the gracious letter that Abraham Lincoln wrote to San Marino in 1861 in response to their offer of honorary citizenship.

Tower #1: The Oldest

There is a chapel at the entrance. I am sure that it is there to give thanks for reaching the top of the mountain.

Tower #2: The Tallest

Tower #2 has the best views of the others as well as having many places to explore.
The top looks like my dad’s shaving brush.
Display of armaments
Shiny Revolvers
Weapons and armaments were showcased in Tower #2.

Near Tower #2, Rob decided to buy some quality leather belts. The belt maker was able to size them on the spot so he purchased a black and a brown!!

Measure twice cut once.

Tower #3: The Closed

Viewing Tower #3 FROM Tower #2
This is the closest that we could get.

If you look closely, you can see feathers on top of each tower.

These feathers are weather vanes and are prominent in any likeness of the three castles.

Palazzo Pubblico

Palazzo Pubblico
Guard
Front of chamber
Back of chamber
Floor with castle seals
Ancient defensive crossbows
Three saints: Marinus, Leo, Agatha
Abraham Lincoln
License #1 and #2
The Palazzo Pubblico or Public Palace is the city hall of the City of San Marino where official state ceremonies and administrative duties take place.

While we were watching the changing of the guard, a black car with license #SM002 arrived. “Who is that?” “The President.”

Basilica of Saint Marinus

Saint Marinus at the Altar??
Side Chapel of the Resurrected Christ
Basilica of Saint Marinus is dedicated to Saint Marinus, the founder and patron of the Republic.

It seems as though the saint gets more love and attention than the Christ!!

We went to dine at an outdoor, well-reviewed restaurant. We often ask the waiter for a recommendation. Ironically, our waiter was wearing an electrolarynx and was not able to speak. Not only couldn’t he speak, but he didn’t know much English for yes and no questions. We made our best guess. What an interesting job choice! Regardless, we had a lovely meal.

Sunset
View of the city
Let’s call it a night!

Last thought as I fall asleep: I wonder if Dan Marino has ever been to San Marino? 💤💤💤

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