The Most Serene Republic of San Marino or San Marino is one of the smallest nations in the world. Located in southern Europe , it is completely surrounded by Italy and has a population of less than 29,000 including 5,000 Sammarineses living in foreign countries and 1,000 foreigners living in San Marino.
Geography
San Marino is an enclave of Italy, on the border between the regioni of Emilia-Romagna and Marche . Its topography is dominated by the Apennines mountain range, and has a rugged terrain. The highest point in the country, monte Titano , is situated at 749 m above sea level. There are no bodies of water of any significant size.
The climate is Mediterranean , with warm summers and mild winters.
San Marino is the third-smallest country in Europe, with only Vatican City and Monaco being smaller.
Economy
Although San Marino is not an official European Union member, it is allowed to use the euro as its currency by virtue of arrangements with the council of the European Union ; it is also granted the right to use its own designs on the national side of the euro coins . Before the Euro, the Sammarinese lira was coupled to and exchangeable with the Italian lira . The small number of Sammarinese euro coins, as was the case with the lire before it, are primarily of interest to coin collectors .
The tourist sector contributes over 50% of San Marino's GDP , with more than 3.3 million tourists visiting in 1997 . The key industries are banking , electronics , and ceramics . The main agricultural products are wine and cheese .
San Marino's postage stamps , which are only valid within the country, are mostly sold to philatelists and also form a source of income.
The per capita level of output and standard of living are comparable to those of Italy, which supplies much of its food.
Demographics
Being completely surrounded by Italy , there is no significant difference between the population of San Marino and Italy and many Italians live in San Marino.
The language spoken is Italian , and Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion.