Vatican City is the smallest country in the world. Tucked away within Rome’s bustling streets lies a secret world, hidden in plain sight. Vatican City, an independent nation nestled within the Italian capital, holds a remarkable distinction. It’s the smallest country on the planet.
With an area barely spanning 110 acres, this diminutive domain is home to an astonishing array of iconic landmarks, revered institutions, and intriguing secrets. From the Sistine Chapel’s celestial ceiling to the mysterious Vacatican Archives, let’s delve into the captivating story of the world’s smallest, yet most fascinating country.
Vatican City
Vatican City, is a landlocked sovereign country, city-state, microstate, and enclave within Rome, Italy. It became independent from Italy in 1929 with the Lateran Treaty.
It is a distinct territory under “full ownership, exclusive dominion, and sovereign authority and jurisdiction” of the Holy See, itself a sovereign entity under international law, which maintains the city-state’s temporal power and governance, diplomatic, and spiritual independence.
The Vatican is also a metonym for the pope, the city-state’s and worldwide Catholic Church government Holy See, and the Roman Curia.
With an area of 49 hectares (121 acres) and as of 2023 a population of about 764, it is the smallest state in the world both by area and by population. It is also the second-least populated capital in the world.
As governed by the Holy See, Vatican City State is an ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state ruled by the Pope, who is the bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church. Meanwhile, the highest state functionaries are all Catholic clergy of various origins.
After the Avignon Papacy (1309–1377) the popes have mainly resided at the Apostolic Palace within what is now Vatican City, although at times residing instead in the Quirinal Palace in Rome or elsewhere.
Vatican’s culture
The Holy See dates back to early Christianity and is the principal episcopal see of the Catholic Church, which has approximately 1.329 billion baptized Catholics in the world as of 2018 in the Latin Church and 23 Eastern Catholic Churches.
The independent state of Vatican City, on the other hand, came into existence on 11 February 1929 by the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy, which spoke of it as a new creation, not as a vestige of the much larger Papal States (756–1870), which had previously encompassed much of Central Italy.
Vatican City contains religious and cultural sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Apostolic Library, and the Vatican Museums. They feature some of the world’s most famous paintings and sculptures.
Furthermore, the unique economy of the City is supported financially by donations from Catholic believers, by the sale of postage stamps and souvenirs, fees for admission to museums, and sales of publications. Hence, Vatican City has no taxes, and items are duty-free.
Name
The name Vatican City was first used in the Lateran Treaty, signed on 11 February 1929. This established the modern city-state named after Vatican Hill, the geographic location of the state within the city of Rome. “Vatican” is derived from the name of an Etruscan settlement, Vatica or Vaticum, located in the general area the Romans called Ager Vaticanus, “Vatican territory”.
The Italian name of the city is Città del Vaticano or, more formally, Stato della Città del Vaticano. And it means ‘Vatican City State’. Its Latin name is Status Civitatis Vaticanae. This is used in official documents by the Holy See, the Church, and the Pope.
Things to Do in Vatican City
From the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica to the artistic treasures of the Vatican Museums, they offer a wealth of extraordinary sights and experiences. So, immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and spirituality that define this enchanting place.
When exploring Vatican City, there are several must-see attractions. Such as, St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and a true architectural marvel. Stand in awe of its grandeur and admire the masterpieces within, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino. Take a moment to climb St. Peter’s Dome for a breathtaking view of Vatican City and Rome.
Next, venture into the Vatican Museums to view an exceptional collection of art and historical artifacts. Prepare to be dazzled by the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes adorn the ceiling and altar wall. As you explore the vast corridors and galleries, you’ll discover ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, intricate tapestries, and Raphael’s exquisite masterpieces.
In conclusion, if you’d like, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Vatican City. Many cherish their experience attending a papal audience or Mass led by the Pope. The Vatican Gardens are a tranquil oasis filled with meticulously manicured lawns, colorful flowers, and stunning fountains.
It’s also worth taking a stroll along the wide Via della Conciliazione boulevard. However, connecting people from Vatican City to Rome. It offers splendid views of the Tiber River and the city’s iconic landmarks.
