Europe is home to countless iconic sites largely unknown to the public, including a small republic founded in 301 AD by a Christian stonecutter—San Marino. This intriguing 61-square-kilometer state, nestled within Italy, consistently astonishes visitors with its distinctive charm.
The capital, perched atop Mount Titano at 750 meters above sea level, features an old town surrounded by formidable medieval walls. Its narrow, traffic-free streets are adorned with buildings and monuments made entirely of local stone. While the Three Towers at the mountain’s summit and the Public Palace are frequently visited and photographed, there are many lesser-known attractions that can equally captivate those who explore further.
For modern art enthusiasts, the San Marino National Gallery is a must-visit. Opened on July 7, 2018, and housed in the beautifully restored Logge dei Volontari (Volunteers’ Loggias), this gallery is conveniently located in the historic center. Inside, you’ll find a remarkable collection of modern artworks and books spanning the post-war era to the 1970s. The gallery showcases notable Italian artists from the 20th century, including Renato Guttuso, Emilio Vedova, Sandro Chia, Enzo Cucchi, Corrado Cagli, Giuseppe Spagnulo, and Luigi Ontani, alongside prominent local talents.
Another hidden gem awaits in the Montale Tunnel: an installation by Maurizio Cattelan, one of Italy’s most famous contemporary artists. Created in 1991 as part of a project called “Via Crucis,” this piece features Cattelan’s signature rendered in three ‘T’s. While they may initially evoke the Three Towers of San Marino, they also intentionally symbolize Mount Golgotha. This artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the historical blue and white train that provided shelter to 100,000 displaced individuals fleeing from nearby Italy during World War II.
Embark on a surprising journey through modern art while exploring the world’s oldest and smallest republic!