San Marino

Serenissima Repubblica of San Marino is a small independent state located between Emilia Romagna (Rimini region) and Marche (Pesaro-Urbino area).
The State has ancient origins and is to be considered the oldest longlasting republic in the world (the tradition wants its date of foundation on September 3 301).
During middle age and Renaissance, San Marino developed peculiar institutions and, except for some brief periods of military occupation, the Republic has always maintained a certain independence and autonomy.
Today, although not part of the European Union, has adopted the Euro as official currency.
Renowned for shopping and souvenirs, San Marino has a state museum exibiting valuable and famous masterpieces of Francesco Menzocchi, Guercino, Pompeo Batoni, Elizabeth Sirani, Stefano Galletti, Michele Giambono, Baccio Bandinelli, Tiburzio Passerotti, Bernardo Strozzi and many others.
http://www.visitsanmarino.com