The origins of San Marino are based on the charming legend of Saint Marinus who founded the community and the republic in AD301, he took refuge on Mount Titano.

The tiny city holds a wealth of history, museums and priceless architectural monuments, while a wealth of assorted crafts and souvenirs provide a vast, pleasant shopping experience

In whatever part of this 61-sq km (24-sq mile) territory you go, in particular at the peak of its mountain, your gaze is lost over a unique, dazzling panorama: the fertile soils of Emilia Romagna and the soft rolling hills of the Marche and Montefeltro, and on to the placid Adriatic Sea. The Sammarinese territory is made up of nine ancient citadels, including the capital, San Marino.

CLIMATE
San Marino in Italy enjoys a temperate climate. If you are planning on travelling to San Marino, you should first decide which season to go in. There is moderate snow in winter and some brief showers in summer.

The atmosphere is clean, typical of Low Mountain and hill country with sea breezes. There are no cars allowed within the walled area of the city, so that also helps to keep the atmosphere clean and crisp.

Light to medium weighted clothing is necessary in San Marino, as well as rainwear.

VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS

Passport should be valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals except EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.

Italy is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement the visa regulations also apply to San Marino and the Vatican City.

Not required by all nationals i.e.; nationals of EU countries can stay for an unlimited period, whereas nationals of Australia, Canada and USA can stay up to 90 days.

TRAVEL ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO IN SAN MARINO:

Explore the perfectly preserved medieval centre with its narrow, winding streets, churches and ancient houses. Cars are banned so a stroll around the city's ramparts is a peaceful and atmospheric way to absorb the spirit of this ancient city-state.

• Visit the scented pine forests, fields and waterways of the territory - perfect for riding, fishing and walking. For more adrenaline-fuelled fun, the precipitous slopes surrounding the capital offer testing mountain bike trails. And the azure waters of the Adriatic coast are never far away.

• Attend the 24 Ore di San Marino, the country's main sailing regatta (held in July) or the Gran Premio Formula 3000 (Formula One Grand Prix), one of several annual motor racing events.

• Buy famous Scudi - San Marino's gold coin. If stamps are more your thing, the State Philatelic & Numismatic Office issues collectible and commemorative packs.

• Take in the eight picturesque villages scattered around the countryside outside the capital. Places of interest include Malatesta Castle at Serravalle; the modern church and the stamp and coin museum at Borgo Maggiore; the church and convent at Valdragone; and the fort at Pennarossa.