Guaita, the oldest and largest of San Marino’s three towers, stands in the capital city of San Marino.
The tower is the first and most prominent of the Three Towers of San Marino, which rise on Monte Titano above the republic. Guaita’s origins reach back to the 11th century, although the structure was repeatedly modified and strengthened. It served defensive purposes and was also used as a prison.
The Three Towers—Guaita, Cesta, and Montale—are among San Marino’s most recognizable national symbols. Their mountain setting helps explain the strategic importance of the site, which overlooks the surrounding Italian landscape. The historic center of San Marino and Monte Titano were inscribed together on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008.
San Marino is both the name of the country and its capital city, a distinction that can cause confusion. The capital is not Serravalle, the republic’s largest municipality, and Guaita is not the country’s official government palace.