San Marino

San Marino is wedged between the Italian regions of Romagna and Marche, only a few kilometres from the Adriatic Riviera (Rimini).  According to historical tradition, the ancient Republic of San Marino was founded in AD 301  by a Dalmatian stonecutter called Marino, whom Diocletian had entrusted with the task of restoring the walls of the town of Rimini. Marino, and his colleague and close friend Leo, were Christians and to escape the persecutions enforced by the Emperor they took shelter on two nearby hills, Mount Feretrio and Mount Titano respectively. A 10th century manuscript recalls Marino as the "libertatis fundator" of this tiny republic that covers only 61 square kilometres. The Republic of San Marino is divided into nine "castelli" or castles. The first of these is Castello di Cittą, which is the oldest part of the republic and stands on the top of Mount Titano. From the castle of Serravalle it is possible to climb to the fortress and in Borgomaggiore, there is a sanctuary designed by the famous architect Michelucci.