Over time the strongest influences on San Marino have obviously come from Italy, yet the Sammarinese have maintained independence by various means. Due to this the people cling to a distinct culture and lifestyle based on their past and their particular mountainous landscape. However, Italian culture has been incredibly influential in so many ways.
The Italians introduced their language, dress, foods, and wines to the people and today many of these influences are still common, as are more recent introductions in the form of technology, communication, and transportation.
However, the Sammarinese never abandoned their historic culture and lifestyle. The traditional dress is differentiated from Italy, there are local foods that are distinct, and the people's mentality is also different from that of Italy as the people are proud of their Sammarinese ethnicity, history, and identity.