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.
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.
The origins of San Marino are based on the charming legend of Saint Marinus who founded the community and the republic, when, in AD301, he took refuge on Mount Titano.
Apart from the Vatican City, it is the only city-state that is completely surrounded by another country.
Location
Western Europe, northeastern part of the Italian peninsula.
Area
61.2 sq km (23.6 sq miles).
Population
30,780 (official estimate 2007).
Population Density
503 per sq km.
Capital
San Marino. Population: 5,000 (UN estimate 2003).
Geography
San Marino is a tiny state bordered by the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna to the north and east and Marche to the south and west. The landscape is for the most part green with rolling hills, dominated by the three peaks of Mount Titano. Within San Marino lie the capital of the same name and eight villages.
San Marino food has become a favorite with many food connoisseurs across the globe. The food of San Marino has close resemblances with Italian cuisine. However, there are several dishes that are typical of the country. Most of the Mediterranean cuisines are divided into three courses
Starters
Main course
Dessert
The ingredients that are used in the food in San Marino comprise of freshly grown vegetables, pasta and meat. Both traditional and contemporary dishes are loved and cooked in San Marino.
San Marino food also uses various types of sauces and spices to add that extra flavor and taste to food. Some of the recipes are extremely popular with the local people of San Marino. Some of these are:
Faggioli con le cotiche
Pasta e cece
Nidi di rondine
Bustrengo
Zuppa di ciliege
Cacciatello
These food items have also been loved by several travelers and tourists from other countries, who visit San Marino. Baked and lightly cooked food items are preferred in the country.
Food from San Marino Italy also comprise of some world-class wines, without which, the meal seems incomplete. The two most sough after wines in the country are Biancale and Sangiovese. While, Biancale is a dry white wine, Sangiovese is a strong red wine. Food and drinks in San Marino are an integral part of the social life in the country. There are also several family-owned restaurants in the country, where traditional as well as modern cuisines are available.
