Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world, with a population of just over 800 people. Here’s a rundown of some interesting facts about this unique country:

Location: Vatican City is an independent city-state located within Rome, Italy. It’s surrounded by the city of Rome, but it’s a separate country with its own government, currency, and postal system.

History: The Vatican City was established in 1929, when the Lateran Treaty was signed between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy. The treaty established Vatican City as an independent state and recognized the sovereignty of the Holy See over the city.

Government: Vatican City is a theocratic absolute monarchy, meaning that it’s ruled by the Pope, who serves as the head of state and government. The Pope is elected by the College of Cardinals and serves for life.

Language: The official language of Vatican City is Italian, but Latin is also widely spoken. Many Vatican City residents are fluent in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Currency: The official currency of Vatican City is the Euro (€), although it also issues its own coins and stamps.

Population: As mentioned earlier, Vatican City has a population of just over 800 people. This includes clergy, Swiss Guards, and employees of the Holy See.

Economy: Vatican City is one of the wealthiest countries in the world per capita due to its extensive real estate holdings and financial assets. It has no taxes, no debt, and no unemployment.

Culture: Vatican City is home to numerous cultural institutions, including the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. It’s also home to several art galleries, libraries, and archives.

Military: Vatican City has no standing army or air force. However, it has a small force of Swiss Guards who serve as ceremonial guards and provide security for the Pope.

Education: Vatican City has its own school system, which offers primary education to children of Vatican City residents.

Sports: Despite its small size, Vatican City has a strong sports culture and participates in several international sporting competitions. It even has its own football team!

Fun Facts:

• Vatican City is home to the world’s smallest postal system.
• It has its own train station (the only one in the world that doesn’t have tracks leading out of it).
• The country has its own heliport.
• The Pope is the only monarch who has no passport.
• The country’s telephone numbers start with +379.
• The official weight of a Vatican City resident is around 1 kg (2.2 lbs), making it one of the lightest populations in the world!

Overall, Vatican City is a unique and fascinating country that offers a glimpse into history, culture, and spirituality like nowhere else on earth.