San Marino Information, Geography and History

Introduction though San Marino is the third smallest independent nation in Europe only after Monaco and Vatican City, it is the oldest European nation; being founded sometime in 301 AD. The country takes its name from its founder Marinus, a stonemason; who founded the country as a refuge for Christians, after he fled from Island of Arbe which was under the power of Emperor Diocletian, an anti-Christian Roman emperor.

Location of San Marino : the Republic of San Marino is situated atop the mountain of Titano, which is a part of the Appennines Mountains in the country of Italy. Italy completely encircles this tiny nation which measures no more than 24 Square Miles.

Physical Map of San Marino : a small mountain land mass completely engulfed within Italy, it happens to be Europe's third smallest independent country. San Marino is positioned on the Appennines Mountains; the largest section of the country falling on the sides and the peak of Mt. Titano. The Mt.

Titano, has three peaks, each of which are fortified on top. At the bottom of the slopes of the mountains, are plain; most of which are dedicated to agriculture. Climate of San Marino : the prevalent clime of the country is Mediterranean. So, the summers are warm and sunny and the winter months are pleasantly cool. Rainfall through the year is also quite reasonable with the average annual precipitation ranging between 55 and 80 cm.

Flora and Fauna of San Marino :

• Flora : San Marino shares its variety of flora with the northeast of the country of Italy. The Mediterranean clime sees to the fact that there is an abundance of vineyards and olive groves. However, the other types of plants to be found are ash, beech, yew, pine, oak, fir, maple and wild oak; aside of tropical flowers like bougainvillea.

• Fauna : the fauna of the Republic of San Marino has similarity with that of the fauna of Italy too. The commonly spotted species are badger, porcupine, hare, fox and squirrel.