Vatican City

Vatican City, the world’s smallest sovereign state, is a unique enclave within Rome that serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. This extraordinary city-state, measuring just 0.44 square kilometers, is a treasure trove of art, history, and religious significance that draws millions of visitors annually.

Vatican City (Città del Vaticano) stands as an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. Established in 1929 by the Lateran Treaty, it serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Vatican’s architectural magnificence is epitomized by St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church, crowned by Michelangelo’s iconic dome. The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s most extensive art collections, including the celebrated Sistine Chapel with its magnificent frescoes. As both a sovereign nation and the epicenter of Catholicism, Vatican City uniquely combines political autonomy with religious authority. The state maintains its own postal system, radio station, newspaper, and even a small but efficient railway station. Despite its diminutive size, it wields significant global influence through its religious leadership and cultural heritage. The Vatican Gardens occupy nearly half of the city-state’s area, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling tourist areas.

The state also houses its own bank, pharmacy, supermarket, and police force (the Swiss Guard), making it a fully functioning sovereign entity despite its small scale.

Major Cities

As a city-state, Vatican City consists of a single urban area. However, key areas within include:

• St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro)
• Vatican Museums Complex
• The Apostolic Palace
• The Vatican Gardens