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What is the Oldest Country in the World?

Published in World History 2 mins read

The oldest country in the world, often recognized for its continuous existence as a sovereign state and republic, is San Marino.

San Marino: The Oldest Republic

San Marino holds the distinction of being the oldest existing republic globally. Nestled as an enclave within Italy, this tiny nation traces its origins back to September 3, 301 CE, when it was founded by Saint Marinus as a monastic community. Over the centuries, it maintained its independence and evolved into a constitutional republic, a status it has held continuously for an impressive 1,700 years. This remarkable longevity has earned it recognition, including a Guinness World Record, for being the oldest surviving sovereign state and the oldest republic.

Defining "Oldest": Varying Criteria

The concept of the "oldest country" can be interpreted in several ways, as different criteria can lead to different answers. The definition often depends on whether one considers continuous civilization, the establishment of modern statehood, or the uninterrupted existence of a specific form of government.

  • Oldest Republic: San Marino stands out definitively in this category due to its unbroken history as a self-governing republic.
  • Oldest Continuous Civilization: Nations like China or Egypt boast millennia of continuous cultural and societal development, with evidence of organized societies stretching back thousands of years.
  • Oldest Recognized Statehood: Other countries, such as Japan or Ethiopia, have claims based on long histories of imperial rule or the continuous existence of a distinct political entity, even if their current forms of government are more recent.

However, when specifically looking at the longest-surviving, self-governing republic, San Marino's claim is unique and widely recognized worldwide.

The Enduring Legacy of San Marino

San Marino's enduring independence and republican form of government are a testament to its strategic location, diplomatic skill, and its constitution, which dates back to 1600. Despite its small size, it has successfully navigated centuries of European conflicts and political changes, preserving its unique heritage. Its long history and stable governance make it a fascinating study in political longevity.

You can learn more about its history and unique status here.