The Basilica del Santo is considered to be the most important church in San Marino and it is also the most spectacular. Built in the 19th century on the site of one of the first Christian monuments, the building retains some of the original structure including the bell tower, which dates from about 1600. The basilica was built in the neo-classical style with Corinthian columns. Under the altar is an urn which contains the remains and artefacts of San Marino, the city’s patron saint. The church also houses the 17th century throne of the Captains Regent, which is still used today for inauguration ceremonies. A staircase by the bell tower leads to the 16th century church of St Peter, carved into the rocks, where it is claimed that San Marino slept.
