San Marino is a European miniature country located on the east coast of the Italian peninsula, between Rimini and Ancona, with its capital in San Marino. Its geographical location is similar to that of the Vatican, and it belongs to the "country China" in Italy. In addition, San Marino is a highly developed capitalist country and one of the famous "tax paradises" in Europe. Its simple tax system and low tax rates have attracted many international companies to incorporate in the country to avoid the high tax burden.
San Marino, Source: Network
I. Introduction to San Marino
The Republic of San Marino (or San Marino) is one of the world's smallest countries, located in a landlocked country in the northeastern part of Europe's Apennine Peninsula, 23 kilometers from the Adriatic Sea. The country has a land area of 61.16 square kilometers and borders Italy. The territory is undulating and mountainous, located in the central titano mountain, 755.24 meters above sea level. It has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. As can be seen from the map of San Marino, the country is divided into 9 administrative districts, with the capital being San Marino. In 2022, San Marino had a population of 33,698, of which 80% had San Marino nationality.
San Marino is a highly developed capitalist country, San Marino stamps are valid only domestically, and most of them are sold to philatelic enthusiasts, forming a source of income. The country's industry and commerce are mainly banking, electronics and ceramics, while agricultural products are wine and cheese. In 1992, San Marino became a member of the United Nations. GDP in 2020 was US$1.543 billion, down 4.8% year-on-year
Map of San Marino, the source of the above two images: Internet
2. History of San Marino
The country's history dates back to the late 4th century BC and has been able to maintain its independence to this day due to its unique geographical location and political structure.
During the Middle Ages, San Marino consisted of a series of different autonomous cities and regions, but they realized that they had common interests and cooperated by signing treaties. These treaties were called "Castillion" and limited wars and hostilities between regions.
In the 19th century, San Marino became an ally of the then Italian King Victor Galibaudi in the process of unifying Italy, becoming a first-class holiday destination and an international tax paradise.
Currently, San Marino is a modern town that is popular with tourists from all over the world and one of Europe's tax havens.
3. World celebrities and key figures in history of San Marino
1. San Marino, founder of San Marino. The legendary San Marino came to this area around 301 AD and founded the San Marino Castle with the locals, thus making the land an independent republic.
2. Freedom fighters of the Republic of San Marino. In the 17th century, the Republic of San Marino experienced a bloody period of history, when San Marino became the object of competition between various Italian countries. During this period, the freedom fighters fought for nothing and successfully defended the city of San Marino.
3. Thomas Babini: He was an important philosopher and theologian born in San Marino, known for his intellectual contributions during the Renaissance. His representative works include "Dialogue", "Ethics" and "Political Science", which have had a profound impact on the development of philosophy in modern times.
4. Giuseppe Garibaldi: One of the San Marino-born Italian opera masters, he is known as one of the most talented composers in the history of Western music. His representative works include "La Traviata" and "Rigoletto" and many other time-honored classics.
5. Francesco Gasparini: A San Marino sculptor, he is mainly known for monuments, separations, and sculptures. His representative works include the public sculpture in the Chess Square and the Madonna and Child enshrined in the Church of Santa Marina.
Fourth, San Marino's cultural characteristics and national specialties
1. History of the Republic of San Marino: San Marino has a long history, is the smallest independent country in Europe, and has a unique political, cultural and economic system. Its history dates back to the 4th century BC, which provides a solid foundation for the country's cultural diversity and national character.
2. The beauty of San Marino: Located at the eastern end of the Apennines, it is a highland city surrounded by beautiful and spectacular natural landscapes. San Marino's beauty consists mainly of mountains, forests and lakes, which offer visitors a great place for recreation and adventure.
Beautiful view of San Marino, source: Internet
3. Buildings and works of art in San Marino: San Marino has many ancient buildings and works of art, including churches, museums, galleries, and sculptures, among others. They help people gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of this small country.
4. OLEO glass: OLIO glass is a specialty of San Marino, it is a delicate and gorgeous handmade item. These glass products are often used for decoration, such as vases, chandeliers, fish tanks, etc. Each item is unique, handmade and precious.
5. San Marino's wines: San Marino has been known since ancient times for producing wines with rich textures and unique flavors, most notably Sanguivita and Sauvignon wines, which have won many international awards, so it's a good experience to try the local wines while traveling.
5. San Marino's famous tourist attractions and cultural customs
1. San Marino Castle: San Marino Castle is one of San Marino's most important attractions, it is located on a high hill, offering a great location overlooking the whole city and surrounding views. The castle's buildings include three main towers, the tallest of which can be climbed, and a museum that showcases the history and culture of San Marino.
Castle of San Marino
2. Palace of the Republic of San Marino: The Palace of the Republic of San Marino is one of the most important political buildings in San Marino, and it is located near the Castle of San Marino. The palace was built in 1894 AD as the San Marino Assembly and Government Building. It showcases European Renaissance architectural techniques and design concepts.
3. San Marino's First Square: Located near San Marino Castle, this square is one of the oldest squares in San Marino and one of the most bustling tourist areas in the country. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops showcasing San Marino's culture, history, and art.
4. Church of San Wincheslau: This church is one of the most important religious buildings in San Marino and one of the oldest churches in San Marino. Built around the 4th century AD, this church is steeped in history and its interior displays many precious works of art and artifacts.
5. San Marino Museum: The San Marino Museum is the largest museum in the country, with a large collection of art, artifacts, and materials about San Marino's culture and history. The museum is divided into three main sections, namely the Department of Archaeology, the Department of Folk Art and the Department of Modern Art, which vividly presents the culture and history of San Marino from all aspects.
San Marino Museum
Introduction to San Marino's unique cultural scene:
1. A fusion of Italian culture and traditional San Marino. Although San Marino is located in Italy, its remote location attaches great importance to the preservation of the country's traditional culture. Visitors can enjoy the simple rural culture, taste the natural cuisine, and experience the unique folk activities and traditional festivals.
2. San Marino people are hospitable. The local locals are friendly and welcoming, and they are happy to help visitors solve problems and share local life and stories. This allows visitors to get to know San Marino more deeply and enjoy a more welcoming travel experience.
6. Historical, economic and military facts of San Marino
1. Introduction to historical and economic interesting facts:
(1) Bounty Hunters - In medieval times, San Marino was targeted by "bounty hunters" because of its independent and inviolable status, that is, those who wanted to challenge and rule San Marino would be supported and rewarded by other countries. However, the attempts of these bounty hunters were defeated, proving the strong will and strong defenses of the San Marinos.
(2) Tax Paradise – San Marino is one of the famous tax paradises in Europe. Its simple tax system and low tax rates have attracted many international companies to incorporate in the country to avoid the high tax burden. San Marino is also a signatory of a free trade agreement between the EU and Italy, making it an ideal place for businesses to invest and grow.
(3) The origin of the Red Cross and stamps - San Marino is one of the origins of the Red Cross movement. In the 19th century, a San Marino doctor went to Hungary to fight in the war and saw many battlefield illnesses, so he returned to San Marino and founded a group to provide voluntary medical care. In addition, the first set of San Marino stamps was also issued in the 19th century, which is considered one of the first countries to date to use stamps.
2. Introduction to the political and military facts of San Marino:
(1) Ancient republican system - San Marino has a long republican system, which has been in place since 301 AD. In this republic, two presidents elected by all citizens jointly lead the affairs of the country, a system that continues to this day.
(2) San Marino Guard - The San Marino Guard is the only armed force in the country and an organization rich in tradition and history. Historically, the San Marino Guard has eliminated invaders. Today, the guard defends San Marino's independence and security.
(3) A letter from Einstein – San Marino's contribution to human civilization was not only economic and political, it also attracted many prominent people. In the early 50s of the 20th century, the famous physicist Einstein wrote a letter in support of San Marino's international independence. The letter strengthened San Marino's standing in the international community and attracted worldwide attention.
(4) Rubibi protection – In the 19th century, San Marino became the target of Italian rule. During this perilous period, the Italian nationalist Lupipi, out of his love and support for San Marino, led resistance movements in the region for a time. His efforts eventually led to the independence of San Marino.
7. Gonzo of San Marino
1. San Marino is one of the oldest republics in the world, dating back to 301 AD. According to legend, the founder of San Marino was a Christian priest who started this unique country by building a chapel on a hill and gifting the land to the underprivileged.
2. Although San Marino is smaller, it has its own armed forces and postal system. These institutions are well-trained and highly respected.
3.The Constitution of San Marino provides for automatic expulsion if the head of State serves more than 10 years. This provision ensures that San Marino's leadership rotates, reducing the possibility of corruption.
4. San Marino does not have its own airport and railway, but it has a modern road system and a very efficient public transport system.
5. San Marino honors local history and culture through frescoes and sculptures. The most famous of these are a fresco depicting the Virgin Mary, patron of San Marino, and a granite sculpture that represents the constitutional founder of San Marino.
Frescoes of the Virgin Mary, source: Internet
6. San Marino also has several theme parks and natural parks, which attract a large number of tourists to visit and relax. Among the most popular are the San Marino Grand Canyon Natural Park, the Ocean Star Aquarium and the "Gothic Fairy Tale Castle of San Marino".
Conclusion:
San Marino is a highly developed capitalist country, San Marino stamps are valid only domestically, and most of them are sold to philatelic enthusiasts, forming a source of income. The country's industry and commerce are mainly banking, electronics and ceramics, while agricultural products are wine and cheese. The local people are warm and friendly, and they are happy to help tourists solve problems and share local life and stories.
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