Palazzo Pubblico

It stands on the site of the Domus Magna Comunis, the old fourteenth-century palace, which was demolished in the late nineteenth century because it was in danger of collapse. The new palace was built between 1884 and 1894 to a design by the Roman architect Francesco Azzurri, in the style of medieval town halls. At the inauguration on 30 September 1894, Giosuè Carducci gave the speech.

The façade has a portico with three pointed arches and a clock tower with a mosaic of Saints Leo, Marino and Agata. Above the arches are the coats of arms of the four castles that joined the Republic last: Serravalle, Fiorentino, Faetano and Montegiardino. To the right stands a bronze statue of San Marino, founder of the Republic.

From the central balcony, on 1 April and 1 October each year, the two Captains Regent are announced - the heads of state who serve for six months. Inside is the Sala del Consiglio Grande e Generale, the parliament with its 60 seats, dominated by Emilio Retrosi's large painting of San Marino appearing to his people.

The last major restoration, overseen by Gae Aulenti, was completed in 1996. The palace is now closed again for restoration, but the façade and the square remain the postcard image of San Marino. In summer, watch the changing of the Guardia di Rocca: green jacket, red trousers and a kepi with a pompom.