Vatican City, officially known as the Vatican City State, is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population. It is a landlocked city-state enclave within Rome, Italy, serving as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. Governed by the Pope who is also the bishop of Rome, Vatican City is an ecclesiastical-monarchical state. It came into existence in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy. The Vatican covers about 0.44 square kilometers (44 hectares) and has a population of less than 1,000 people as of recent estimates. Key landmarks include St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums, and the Vatican Apostolic Library. The Vatican also functions as the governance hub of the Holy See, which is the central authority of the Catholic Church worldwide.
Geography and Governance
- Vatican City is completely surrounded by the city of Rome.
- It is governed by the Pope and clergy who hold the highest state functions.
- It has its own post office, telephone system, radio station, observatory, and bank.
Cultural and Religious Significance
- The city contains significant religious buildings including St. Peter’s Basilica, built above the tomb of Saint Peter.
- Vatican Museums house vast collections of art and historical artifacts collected by the popes.
- The Vatican is a major pilgrimage site and spiritual center for Catholics worldwide.
Economy and Population
- Vatican City’s economy is mainly supported by donations from Catholics globally, sales of stamps and souvenirs, and museum admissions.
- No income tax is levied; the state imports almost all supplies.
- The population is less than 1,000 people, mostly clergy and officials of the Holy See.
This tiny state stands as both a political entity and an enduring symbol of the Catholic Church's spiritual authority and cultural heritage.
