This is the smallest country in the world (and it might fit your area) – Executive Summary

Vatican City, a region located within Rome, Italy, is the smallest country in the world. With an area not exceeding 0.44 square kilometres, this independent ecclesiastical state has managed to maintain its independence and uniqueness over the centuries. Perhaps smaller than its neighbor (which could easily house the Vatican), it is an outstanding example of a compact nation rich in history.

The small size of Vatican City is due to its unique history. Its name is derived from Vatican Hill, a geographical location within the city of Rome. The history of the Vatican begins in ancient Rome, on the west bank of the Tiber River, on a small, mostly uninhabited hill known as Agir Vaticanus. Over time, this region became the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church.

Vatican City is an absolute electoral theocracy, in which the Pope, leader of the Catholic Church and Bishop of Rome, exercises supreme legislative, executive, and judicial powers. The Holy See, the name given to the government of the Catholic Church, is headed by the Pope as Bishop of Rome. In this way, the authority of the Holy See extends to Catholics throughout the world, affecting the lives of millions through its decisions and teachings.

Internally, Vatican City is an urban state with no land devoted to agriculture or other exploitation of natural resources. Space saving is a key advantage, as the urban development has been optimized to occupy approximately half of the total area, while the rest is allocated to open spaces, including the beautiful Vatican Gardens.

Despite its small size, the Vatican houses important institutions. The Vatican Palace is the residence of the Pope within the city walls. St. Peter’s Basilica, an imposing building originally built in the 4th century and rebuilt in the 16th century, is one of the most famous buildings in the world. Another point of interest is the entrance to the Vatican Museums and Galleries, located on the north wall, which is open to the public and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Vatican City, despite its small size, is a country rich in history, culture and religion. Its size does not diminish its importance as the seat of the Catholic Church and the seat of the Pope. The Vatican’s influence extends throughout the world, influencing millions of people through its doctrines and decisions.

This small nation is a powerful symbol of faith and spirituality, demonstrating that a nation’s greatness is measured not only by its territorial size, but also by the depth of its cultural and religious influence.