The republic that changes its head of state every 6 months
San Marino is a microstate landlocked in Italy. It is considered the oldest current republic. And uniquely, every 6 months, the head of state changes and is even a duo.
San Marino is anchored on Mount Titano with its medieval city from which you can observe the Baltic Sea. San Marino is also the 5th smallest country in the world landlocked between Emilia-Romagna and the Marches. It owes its origin to a Catholic mason who took refuge on Mount Titano in 303. He was fleeing the persecution of Christians launched by Emperor Diocletian. In 313, the edict of Constantine allowed his community to live in peace. And to become a State.
Two captains
In 1200, new lands were purchased and a formidable army was organized to protect the territory. As early as 1243, an alternation of power was decreed. Every 6 months, two captains are at the head of the country to assume the presidency. This custom of two captains is still in use today with a solemn nomination every April 1st and October 1st. The duo is appointed from among the 60 members of the Grand General Council, an assembly elected every 5 years.
(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Wikipedia / Picture: © Olivier Duquesne)
