The Feast of San Marino

Hillary Rodham Clinton

September 1, 2011

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send congratulations to the people of San Marino as you celebrate your national holiday, the Feast of San Marino, this September 3.

The Republic of San Marino is an inspiring example to the world. You have transcended centuries of political turmoil, and today you are unwavering in your commitment to democracy and human rights. Around the world your contributions to development and humanitarian assistance, and your continued partnership in international organizations, have impacted the lives of so many.

As you celebrate this special day with family, friends, and loved ones, know that the United States stands with you as a partner and friend.

According to Wikipedia:

San Marino, officially the Republic of San Marino is a state situated on the Italian peninsula on the eastern side of the Apennine Mountains. It is an enclave surrounded by Italy.

San Marino is the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world, as the continuation of the monastic community founded on 3 September 301, by stonecutter Marinus of Rab. Legend has it that Marinus left Rab, then the Roman colony of Arba, in 257 when the future emperor, Diocletian, issued a decree calling for the reconstruction of the city walls of Rimini, which had been destroyed by Liburnian pirates.

The constitution of San Marino, enacted in 1600, is the world's oldest constitution still in effect.