San Marino Day Date: September 3
San Marino Day is a public holiday.
On 3 September, the tiny state of San Marino celebrates its patron saint and the anniversary of the foundation of the Republic.
History of San Marino Day
In the year 301, San Marino was founded by a Christian stonemason, Marinus. Marinus fled the island of Arbe off the Dalmation coast to escape the anti-Christian persecution of the Roman Empire. Marinus founded a small community of Christians on Mount Titano. The area was named the Land of San Marino, in memory of Marinus. Later it was named the Community of San Marino. Finally, it was formally known as the Republic of San Marino. Despite frequent invasions by the rulers of Rimini, the state of San Marino maintained its independence. Pope Nicholas IV recognized San Marino’s independence In 1291.
San Marino has been invaded and occupied twice but both for short periods. Cesare Borgia, known as Duca Valentino, occupied the country in 1503 and remained there until the death of his father Rodrigo Borgia, Pope Alexander VI, the same year. Cesare Borgia was forced to withdraw his forces from San Marino following the political unrest after the Pope’s death.
Cardinal Alberoni, in an attempt to gain more political power, used military force to occupy San Marino in 1739. However, civil disobedience and secret communications with the current Pope, Clement XII, ensured the recognition of San Marino’s rights and the restoration of its independence. San Marino has had an official treaty of friendship since 1862 and had it revised several times, with Italy.
San Marino Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
The reading of the “Bando” (proclamation) in the streets starts the celebration of San Marino’s Day. A holy mass inside the Basilica del Santo is then followed by a street procession carrying the relics of San Marinus. In the afternoon, events take on a more popular appearance – a crossbow competition is held at the Cava dei Balestrieri. Meanwhile in the Piazzale lo Stradone a concert and fireworks conclude the celebrations.
Other interesting posts:
- San Marino Remembers Saint Sylvester
- Investiture of the Regent Captains of San Marino
- San Marino’s Anniversary of the Arengo
- Captains Regents Day in San Marino
- San Marino Celebrates St. Agatha Day
Other interesting posts:
