San Marino
Europe
San Marino is a small, landlocked republic surrounded by Italy, set among the rolling hills of the Apennine Mountains. Its capital, the City of San Marino, is famous for its medieval towers, narrow streets, and panoramic views from Mount Titano. Founded, according to tradition, in 301 CE, it is often described as one of the world’s oldest surviving republics. Italian is the official language, and the country’s heritage is closely tied to medieval architecture and Italian culture.
San Marino’s literary tradition is closely connected to Italian literature, with poetry, historical writing, and civic texts reflecting its distinctive republican identity. Writers have explored themes of independence, freedom, community, and the preservation of tradition. Although its literary scene is small, San Marino’s history and cultural institutions offer a distinctive perspective on Italian-language writing and the enduring ideals of self-government.