While the country has a distinct domination of historic religious buildings of Christian faith, the basilica is the main church of the City of San Marino.

The first document that directly relates to the Pieve di San Marino is dated 31 July 1113,[5] with donations from the faithful.

On 5 February 1838, the church was solemnly consecrated by the Bishop of Montefeltro, Crispino Agostinucci in the presence of the Captains Regent.

On 29 August 1982, the basilica received a solemn visit from Pope John Paul II,[5] who venerated relics of Saint Marinus.

[1] The interior of the basilica consists of three naves, supported by sixteen Corinthian columns which form a large ambulatory around the semicircular apse.

In the right aisle is a side altar dedicated to Mary Magdelene and a painting by Elisabetta Sirani, on the subject Noli me tangere that depicts her encounter with the Risen Christ.

Originally built in 600, it houses a valuable altar with inlaid marble, donated by the musician Antonio Tedeschi in 1689, surmounted by a statue of Saint Peter by Enrico Saroldi.

[1] The basilica can also function as a venue for popular events, such as the XII Autumn Music Festival production in 2010 of Mozart's Requiem Mass.