Amazing, unknown art treasures not to be missed
Europe is full of iconic sites unknown to the vast majority of people, but it also has a country, a small Republic founded in 301 by a Christian stonecutter, that many have never heard of. This is San Marino, a 61-km-square state located inside Italy, which always surprises visitors from all over the world with its uniqueness.
The capital town and original settlement are located on the top of Mount Titano, 750 meters above sea level. The old town center, enclosed by imposing medieval walls, is crisscrossed by narrow streets that are closed to traffic and lined with buildings and monuments built entirely of local stone. The Three Towers at the top of Mount Titano and the Public Palace are the most visited and photographed attractions, but the hidden, lesser-known attractions may astonish visitors.
If you are passionate about modern art, the San Marino National Gallery is your spot. The Gallery opened on 7 July 2018 and is hosted at the Logge dei Volontari (Volunteers’ Loggias), a wonderful building erected at the end of the 1930s and recently restored for this purpose. Getting there couldn’t be easier because it is located right in the historical center. What can you see inside this gallery? A fascinating and amazing collection of works of art and books of modern art from the second post-war period to the ’70s, a trip among renowned Italian artists of the 20th century, such as Renato Guttuso, Emilio Vedova, Sandro Chia, Enzo Cucchi, Corrado Cagli, Giuseppe Spagnulo, Enzo Mari, Luigi Ontani and others, together with the most distinguished local painters and sculptors.
Last but not least, the real hidden and most unknown work of art that you can find in the Montale Tunnel: the installation created in 1991 by Maurizio Cattelan, the best-known and most recognized Italian artist worldwide. The artwork was part of a project entitled Via Crucis and represents his own signature with three ‘T’s. At first glance, they recall the Three Towers of San Marino, yet they clearly intentionally represent Mount Golgotha. This unmistakable testimony of the artist’s calls to mind the former Galleries of San Marino and the historical blue and white train which welcomed and gave asylum and shelter to 100,000 displaced people from nearby Italy during the Second World War.
Have a surprising modern art experience while visiting the oldest and smallest Republic in the world!
1/
San Marino National Gallery
2/
Foresta Vergine - Emilio Vedova (1954)
3/
Prima Bella Mostra Italiana - Enzo Cucchi (1995)
Things to consider before traveling
How to choose your accommodation in Europe: a guide
In Europe, there is accommodation for every wish, price range, and desired experience. Whether it’s a tent suspended between two trees, a five-star hotel with a view of a turquoise sea, or a wallet-friendly hostel, it’s all here. The question is, what specific options do you have and how do you go about choosing? That’s […]
The ultimate guide to European currencies
How to convert cash, use cards, and reduce fees One of the great benefits of traveling around Europe is the ease of use when it comes to currencies. On much of the continent, you don’t need to worry about keeping different bills and coins or making mental-math conversations between one currency to another to […]
How to stay safe while traveling in Europe
No matter what, safety while traveling is most important. Luckily, Europe has a stellar safety record, and more than a dozen of its countries regularly appear at the top end of safest places to live and travel lists. To make your adventure safe and secure, consider these tips and best practices! Travel insurance […]
What you need to enter Europe
Visas, documents, and passports So, you are planning to visit Europe. Great! We will be happy to welcome you and share what makes this continent so unique. Here are answers to the most common questions about preparing for your trip. Addressing them now will make your travels smooth, easy, and convenient! Who needs a […]
Your complete guide to planning your daily life in Europe
Tips on local languages, mobile tech, and time zones We all know the feeling: your phone battery is dying or you’re passing through an area of weak signal. At home, it’s usually a simple annoyance, but when you’re traveling, not having access to a communications device is something you’ll want to avoid. So, how […]
Some tips to consider while traveling
Traveling around Europe
Your guide to trains, trams, busses and bikes Europe has one of the most advanced transportation systems in the world. From massive metropolises to small towns, you can easily link up from place to place by public transport. Riding the rails across this marvelous continent might be the best way to explore: it’s highly efficient, […]
Tips to communicate in Europe
Why speaking a few words of the local tongue will make your travel experience even better As you may have guessed, English is widely spoken in Europe, especially in northern countries. In many other countries, people have a good, if not fluent, grasp of the language. But that doesn’t mean that learning—and indeed using! […]
Your guide to passenger rights while traveling in Europe
If you’re a traveler, you’ve probably experienced a delay, cancellation, or other unforeseen issue. Of course, no one wants this, but it’s important to be prepared and perhaps most of all, to know your rights and privileges if a problem arises. So, what are your rights in Europe? Keep reading! Air Passenger Rights So, […]
Read more
The King of Landforms
The most majestic of all landscapes is the fjord, a glacial formation that carves out deep, narrow valleys filled with sparkling waters. High walls preside over the water, providing spectacular views and excellent hiking. Although there are many glacial features that resemble fjords throughout the world, the truest and most beautiful fjords can be found in Europe.
Spain’s most famous street markets
Find something unique to take home with you.
Studying Abroad in Europe
When you travel to Europe, it’s not just about enjoying the sights and sounds. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture to get even more out of your trip. That means jumping in head first to education experiences that you might not do otherwise. Whether you’re studying abroad in Europe for school or on a month-long sabbatical from everyday life, enjoy a wide range of experiences to truly enjoy European culture.
A journey back in time
Germany’s endless array of castles and palaces.