City of San Marino

The City of San Marino (commonly called San Marino) is the capital city and one of the nine castelli (communes) of San Marino. The population of the City of San Marino is 4,071.

History
'''Due to the city being the capital and, in most of history, the only city in San Marino, the history of San Marino is very similar to the history of the city. Refer to the San Marino page for history linked for more information about the city.'''

Saint Marinus and several Christian refugees founded the city in 301. The city bad numerous Christian refugees fleeing from Roman persecution.

The city gained protection from three towers surrounding the city. Guaita, the first tower built in the 11th century, was considered indestructible, moving other nations from invading.

The Crusades caused San Marino to construct Cesta, the second tower in the 13th century, but was not entirely defended until Montale, the third tower, was finished in the 14th century, the smallest of the three towers.

San Marino would expand into the other eight castelli, largely due to overpopulation, via purchasing land, considering a policy in San Marino was to not declare war or invade any other countries to gain territory.

Geography
The City of San Marino borders the castelli of Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Fiorentino, and Chiesanuova in San Marino and the municipality of San Leo in Italy.

Economy
The economy of the city is similar to the country, Until recently, the majority of its economy was based in stone extraction and carving. Today, its economy has become more diverse, with tourism, commerce, postage stamps, and agriculture, albeit agriculture is on a decline.

Landmarks

 * Basilica di San Marino
 * Palazzo dei Capitani
 * Palazzo Pubblico
 * Teatro Titano
 * The Three Towers of San Marino
 * Piazza del Titano
 * Piazza Garibaldi
 * Monastery of Santa Clara
 * Grand Hotel San Marino

Transport
The city is known for its cobblestone streets, and how cars are largely prohibited.

During World War II, San Marino and Remini in Italy were connected with a railway, built under Benito Mussolini. The tunnels and station for the railway still exist, with reopening being proposed, but not enforced. A bus and cable car system can also go to Remini from San Marino.

Elevators connect higher portions of the city of San Marino to the lower portions.

Sports
San Marino has two association Football teams: S.S. Murata and S.P. Tre Penne. The 2006 Winter Olympics saw the Olympic Flame pass through the city.

Sister cities
San Marino is twinned with:


 * San Leo, Italy
 * Rab, Croatia
 * Rønne, Denmark
 * Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States