Introduction
The third smallest state in Europe (after the Holy See and Monaco) also claims to be the world's oldest republic. According to tradition, it was founded by a Christian stonemason named Marinus in 301 A.D. San Marino's foreign policy is aligned with that of Italy. Social and political trends in the republic also track closely with those of its larger neighbor.
Location
Southern Europe, an enclave in central Italy
Geographic coordinates
43 46 N, 12 25 E
Area - comparative
about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Coastline
0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims
none (landlocked)
Climate
Mediterranean; mild to cool winters; warm, sunny summers
Natural resources
building stone
Environment - current issues
none
Environment - international agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification
signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution
Geography - note
landlocked; smallest independent state in Europe after the Holy See and Monaco; dominated by the Apennines
Population
28,503 (July 2004 est.)