Many tourists prefer to spend their holidays abroad. Very popular with travelers is the tiny Republic of San Marino, surrounded on all sides by Italy, whose attractions can not be avoided for the whole day. In addition, thanks to a special system of taxation, San Marino is known as the center of Italian shopping . The territory of the republican state is divided into nine regions, each of which has its own fortress, among which is its capital - the city-castle of San Marino.
Despite the fact that San Marino occupies a small area (about 61 sq. Km.), The monuments of architecture on its territory amaze with its splendor. Even more surprising is the number of monuments per unit area.
What to see in San Marino?
The towers of San Marino
In addition to the city attractions in San Marino, you can visit the fortress, located on Mount Monte Titano. The fortress includes three towers:
- Guaita ;
- La Cesta ;
- Montale .
The tower of Guaita is the oldest building, since it was built in the 6th century. It has no foundation and is located on one of the rocks near the city. Its original purpose was to perform a protective function: it served as a watchtower. However, it was later exploited as a prison.
Currently, the Artillery Museum and the Guards Museum are located here.
The second tower - Chesta - is located at 755 meters above sea level. During the reign of the Roman Empire, she served as an observation post. Its outer walls were built in 1320. And until the 16th century it continued to fulfill its function.
In 1596, the reconstruction of the tower of La Cesta was carried out.
In 1956, the Tower housed the Museum of Ancient Weapons, which has more than seven hundred exhibits: armor, halberds, rifles, and single-shot rifles of the late 19th century.
The third tower - Montale - was built in the 14th century. However, it is not possible to go inside it. Tourists can get to know the tower only from the outside, while in the first two towers the entrance is absolutely free.
Museum of Torture Della Tortura in San Marino
The collection of the museum contains more than a hundred different torture tools, which were used even in the Middle Ages. To each instrument is attached a card with a detailed description of the mechanism of its use. All instruments of torture are in working order and not the first look look quite innocent until you read the instruction manual of this or that torture tool. Most of the exhibits were created in the 15-17 centuries.
Periodically, the museum holds thematic exhibitions dedicated to various countries.
Nevertheless, in comparison with other European museums of torture, the atmosphere here is not so gloomy.
The museum works every day from 10.00 to 18.00, and in August it works until 12 noon. The entrance to the museum is paid for and costs about $ 10.
Basilica del Santo in San Marino
The basilica of Santo Pieve (Saint Marino) was erected in 1838 by the architect Antonio Serra, who decided to decorate the exterior and interior of the church in the style of neoclassicism. Near the central nave are the Corinthian columns, from the first sight they are simply breathtaking.
The main altar is decorated with a statue of St. Marino, which was created by sculptor Tadolini. And under the altar are stored the relics of the Holy One.
The church of the Basilica of San Marino is considered the most beautiful church building on the territory of the republic.
San Marino is one of the smallest European countries. Less is only Monaco and the Vatican. Despite the fact that the republic is small, tourists from all over the world come here every year to visit various museums, architectural monuments and city parks.