Businesses that have been part of the Republic’s economic and social fabric for decades will now be able to obtain official recognition as a “Bottega Storica” (Historic Shop). With the ratification of the Delegated Decree and its accompanying Regulation, the system designed to protect and promote Sammarinese trades and businesses considered living testimony to the Titano’s history, culture and entrepreneurial tradition is now fully operational.
As reported by San Marino RTV, one of the central pillars of the new rules is the establishment of the Register of Historic Shops, which will list businesses meeting the requirements set out in the legislation.
Among the main criteria is a continuous presence of at least 50 years at the same location, although specific exceptions are envisaged for certain types of establishments, including taverns, wine bars and beer houses. However, longevity alone will not be enough to secure recognition.
The assessment will also take into account the role the business has played over the years, the characteristics of the premises, the furnishings and interior and exterior features, as well as the presence of architectural details tied to Sammarinese tradition and culture.
Applications will be examined by an autonomous and independent Commission, tasked with verifying compliance with the requirements and ruling on the awarding of Historic Shop status. Offices responsible for territorial, urban planning and cultural matters will also be involved in the process.
Businesses that receive the recognition will be able to display a specific emblem in their shop windows. Protection will not be limited to the label alone: the Commission will also play a role in any restoration or enhancement work, with the aim of preventing changes that could compromise the historical and identity-defining elements of these establishments.
The measure thus aims to safeguard commercial and artisanal businesses that have endured across generations, turning their history into a distinctive asset with both touristic and economic value.
