At the heart of San Marino’s Historic Centre is the animated Liberty Square (Piazza della Libertà). Here, visit important landmarks, enjoy fine panoramas and experience the welcoming charm of the city’s cafés. The square sits on a series of ancient water-storing cisterns that once provided water to San Marino’s residents. Today, locals view Liberty Square as a celebration of the nation’s fight for independence.
Dominating the square’s centre is the Statue of Liberty, a marble sculpture by Italian artist Stefano Galletti. It depicts an advancing warrior with one hand extended forward and the other grasping a flag. Look for the three towers on the warrior’s crown, which represent the towers of San Marino’s ancient fortifications. The statue stands atop a fountain with drinkable water.
On the north side of the square is the city’s town hall, the Palazzo Pubblico. Built in the late 1900s by Roman architect Francesco Azzurri, it recreates the majestic style of 13th- and 14th-century Italian buildings. Note the Gothic arches, the rooftop battlements and the clock tower, adorned with a mosaic of the saints Agata, Leo and Quirino.
Step inside the palace to glimpse richly decorated rooms that often host state meetings. A major highlight is the Hall of the Council, home to a revered image of St. Marino. Visit the Hall of the Great and General Council to see the seats of the nation’s 60 councilors and religious artwork.
Take a break at one of the square’s cafés. Sit at an outdoor table for great people-watching opportunities and gaze out across rolling green countryside. Alternatively, stand at the edge of the square and peer down over the city’s attractive rooftops.
Liberty Square is a short walk from other major city attractions such as the Basilica of San Marino and Guaita Tower. It’s also close to San Marino’s cable car, which travels between the Historic Centre and Borgo Maggiore.
The Palazzo Pubblico is open daily and has an admission fee. Purchase a combined ticket providing admission to the palace in addition to the city’s towers and state museums.
