Military flag-raising ceremony
Spectators can observe the disciplined parade of colorful uniforms and the solemn flag ceremony in the central square.
~9:30
Investiture Ceremony of the Captains Regent
Cerimonia d’investitura dei Capitani Reggenti
San Marino, San Marino
Oct 1, 2026ExpectedSource
Twice a year, on the first of April and October, the republic of San Marino swears in two new heads of state, the Captains Regent, in a stately ceremony in its historic center. Crossbowmen, flag-throwers, and crowds gather for a ritual that has marked the world's oldest republic since the 1200s.
Key moments
Religious investiture Mass
Attendees may stand in the church to witness traditional hymns and prayers officiated for the newly elected leaders.
~10:40
Official oath and investiture
Citizens and visitors gather outside the council chamber (or its balcony) to watch the historic swearing-in of San Marino's heads of state.
~11:30
Where it happens
Piazza della Libertà
San Marino, San Marino
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Modest attire
Read the local rhythm
Basic Italian greetings (optional)
Keep the visit respectful
Stand quietly and respectfully, follow any seating or standing arrangements, and do not int...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: moderate.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Investiture Ceremony of the Captains Regent
Cerimonia d’investitura dei Capitani Reggenti
San Marino, San Marino
Twice a year, on the first of April and October, the republic of San Marino swears in two new heads of state, the Captains Regent, in a stately ceremony in its historic center. Crossbowmen, flag-throwers, and crowds gather for a ritual that has marked the world's oldest republic since the 1200s.
AnchorCultural anchor
Oct 1, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
This ceremony exemplifies San Marino’s uninterrupted republican tradition (origins c. 1243 ) and was cited as a reason for its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 2008. The institution of Captains Regent is unique among modern states, and the ceremony blends civic pageantry with formal Catholic rites in the basilica. Locals regard it as a solemn civic holiday, emphasizing equality and collective governance (the two Captains...
Key moments to know
~9:30Expected
Military flag-raising ceremony
Spectators can observe the disciplined parade of colorful uniforms and the solemn flag ceremony in the central square.
~10:40Expected
Religious investiture Mass
Attendees may stand in the church to witness traditional hymns and prayers officiated for the newly elected leaders.
~11:30Expected
Official oath and investiture
Citizens and visitors gather outside the council chamber (or its balcony) to watch the historic swearing-in of San Marino's heads of state.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Modest attire
Read the local rhythm
Basic Italian greetings (optional)
Keep the visit respectful
Stand quietly and respectfully, follow any seating or standing arrangements, and do not interrupt proceedings....
Photo with care
Attendees should dress respectfully (removing hats inside the Basilica and council hall) and maintain decorum d...
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Oct 1, 2026
Provisional
City / Area
San Marino
National
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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