Did you know that Italy’s borders encompass two separate, independent countries? Most people are familiar with Vatican City as being one of them, but the other has escaped my attention until just recently. Because of my curious nature, I did a bit of research about these two countries and discovered how uniquely different they are from each other.
The picturesque little country of San Marino, Europes third smallest country after Vatican City and Monaco, has a population of just over 32,000 spread out over its 24 square miles of hilly land. Founded in 301 AD, it sits high on a mountaintop in north-central Italy toward the Adriatic side and is popular with tourists. San Marino is the oldest republic in the world and has a parliamentary government based on rules written in the late 16th century. Although not part of the EU, it uses the euro as currency like Vatican City.
San Marino has managed to keep its independence for a long time mostly because of its hilly terrain. In the 1800’s many supporters for the unification of Italy found relief from persecution in these hills. As a result, a friendship treaty was signed by the Italian state that would guarantee San Marino’s independence permanently.
If you find a chance to visit San Marino, be sure and climb the historical towers for gorgeous views of the town and countryside. The Centro Storico di San Marino is a great place to discover the heart and soul of its people. If you like a private local tour guide, you can contact Tours by Locals. They have several options, and the personal touch can be very enjoyable.
Vatican City, a semi-walled city-state inside Italy’s capital city of Rome, is ruled by The Holy See, the central government, of the Catholic church and is the centre of the Roman Catholic Church. As a monarchy, it is lead by the pope. Vatican City is also the world’s smallest country on only 100 acres and owning a population of 800. As one of the most powerful countries on earth, it is also, unsurprisingly, one of the richest.Each of the two countries has their own flag, anthem, stamps, coins, and licence plates. Both countries are internationally active, including U.N. memberships, but they are not entirely in line with the Italian government and politics. San Marino has a parliamentary government based on rules written in the late 16th century.
Have you ever wondered how someone becomes a citizen of Vatican City? To begin with, unlike any other country, acquiring citizenship in Vatican City has a due date. It is temporary and only for people directly working in the Vatican which can include their close family. Cardinals resident in Vatican City or Rome, diplomats of the Holy See or people residing in Vatican City because of their office or service all comprises the body of citizens. However, it is only the last category that requires an actual grant of citizenship.
Pretty exclusive, wouldn’t you say?
There is much to see inside of St. Peters Basilica and Vatican City. For tours through its extensive museums, the Sistine Chapel, or the underground, visit Vatican Tours.
While touring Italy, take a couple of short detours into these little countries. They have a lot to offer anyone seeking to understand and enjoy another region. Of course, they are very Italian, but they also conduct their lives and affairs as proud independents.
Wow – great post. I’ve just blogged all about Rome (https://worldwidewanderingblog.wordpress.com/2016/09/25/rome-italy/) but would love to see more of the country.
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I loved your post and photos of Rome! Doesn’t this city just blow your mind? I just never tire of seeing Rome one more time:) Thank you for stopping by.
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Thank you! It is an amazing city.
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Hi Susan, this is interesting. I didn’t realize there was another country in a country. Is Vatican City close to the center of Italy? I always thought they were a part of the Italian government.
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Hello, and thanks for stopping by. Vatican City is actually in Rome. It has its own governing body, ruled by the pope. I’m not sure to what degree they might be involved with the Italian government, but Vatican City is its own independent ruling state. I am not an expert by any means on this subject, but I hope this helps.
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Did you know about the fact that in 2012 or 2013 the mountaintown of Filettino (Umbria, not far from Roma) decided to go on their own and become independent from Italy? They had more than enough from the austerity-politics of the Italian government. I know that that happened. I only do not know whether they still are independent. A very interesting story.Furtheron thank you for your blogposts and beautiful pictures which do feel Italy.
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Hi Han, thank you for sharing. I will check it out…very interesting! And I’m glad you enjoyed stopping by the blog:)
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I hope to hear from you, when you find out about this. I wrote a blog on it and would like to find out how it is now. My blog is written in Dutch, in winter 2015. Am sorry about that.
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I will be sure to make a note of it and let you know. Thanks, Han.
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Great post Susan. I’m behind on the blogging front but was lucky enough to get to San Marino in the summer – just magical. Like a medieval fairytale. And what can you say about the splendour of the Vatican – so much to see and do. Absolute favourite there was a guided tour of the gardens.
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Thank you Marilyn…love those guided tours. So much to learn that you can only get from a guide. They are both so different from each other but equally unique.
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I gave a lecture in San Marino and live it. The independent states are great. Most people think the Vatican is in Rome when it isn’t even in Italy.
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Yes, I do the same thing…what did you lecture on George?
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It was in my technical days. I was talking about computer technology for Olivetti.
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A couple of great trivia quiz answers there, Susan, two countries easily missed.
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Very much so…and until now I never thought about them as being separate countries:)
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Yes, we tend to forget this Susan. My first visit to San Marino, I actually stayed for 2 nights and had a most wonderful time. Then the next time was just for a day visit. Stunning views, great shopping and quite frankly a little too touristy for me now.
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With it’s dazzling ambience, San Marino is sure to draw in the tourists. I’m glad you had the opportunity to experience it.
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