Republic of Molossia

Can’t decide whether you want to tour the Silver State or take an international vacation? Do both. In Dayton, Nevada, visitors can take a trip abroad and cross the “border” into an official micronation: the Republic of Molossia.

History of Molossia

The Republic of Molossia is led by its president, His Excellency Kevin Baugh, and his wife, the First Lady Adrianne Baugh, from their property in Dayton. The First Family resides in Molossia, but their territories extend beyond Nevada’s borders. The Farfalla Province is in northern California, and Neptune Deep—a marine sanctuary—is at the bottom of the Indian Ocean.

When the nation was first founded in 1977, it was known as the Grand Republic of Vuldstein and located near Portland, Oregon. It was led by a man named James Spielman who declared himself King James I with Baugh as Prime Minister. Eventually, King James’ involvement waned and the micronation was left to be developed by Baugh. The kingdom went through several names and locations before relocating to Nevada. In 1998, Baugh purchased the land in Dayton and the kingdom was renamed Molossia.

Today, Molossia is one of at least 200 micronations in the world. It’s located on approximately 1.3 acres of land in Dayton and is just a 31-minute drive from Carson City and an 18-minute drive from Virginia City. Its proud heritage and history make it the perfect stop for people who are looking to get a little out there and experience a unique destination you’ll only find in Nevada.

Is the Republic of Molossia a Real Country?

The Republic of Molossia is an unrecognized country inside the U.S. While not a true sovereign state—Molossians still voluntarily provide foreign aid (i.e., taxes) to their neighboring nation—the micronation boasts its own infrastructure and culture. With a reported population of 35 humans (mostly Baugh family members) and four dogs across its non-contiguous territories, Molossian nationals consider themselves citizens of a developing nation. They don’t have paved roads, a hospital, or an airport, but the proud citizens have just about everything else they need.

Life in the Republic of Molossia

Not to be confused with the ancient Greek kingdom, Molossia has an arid, high desert climate and a perfect, year-round temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (the climate paradise is only impacted by weather conditions that blow in from the neighboring United States). The nation has its own poker chip-based currency—the valora, tied to the value of cookie dough—national anthem, bank, railroad, navy (five inflatable boats), and plenty of national monuments. There’s even a Republic of Molossia national instrument, which sounds a whole lot like a kazoo.

The micronation has been at “war” with East Germany since 1983. While the European nation is now defunct, a portion technically still exists as a small, uninhabited island off of Cuba, making the war technically ongoing. Visitors can learn more about Molossia’s unique history and culture with an in-person tour.

Visiting the Republic of Molossia

Molossia offers once-a-month tours (generally April through October), and tourists are required to RSVP before entering the nation. Bring your passport—Molossia will actually stamp it—and proceed through customs to enjoy a variety of attractions. 

The bite-size downtown is home to a dozen government agencies, the First Family’s private residence, a tiki bar and grill, and cultural landmarks. Contraband includes firearms, tobacco, plastic shopping bags, catfish, “fresh” spinach, onions, and walruses. Plan to spend about an hour touring Molossia and bring American currency for souvenirs.

Reservations are required to tour the Republic of Molossia, and His Excellency requests no unannounced visitors. Check The Official Website of the Republic of Molossia for the latest tour dates and RSVP information.