1. A Country Smaller Than a Mall
Vatican City is so tiny, you could fit it inside many shopping malls with room to spare. Officially, it covers just 44 hectares or about 0.17 square miles. This makes it the world’s smallest independent nation by both area and population. About 800 people live here, but only roughly half are Vatican citizens, mostly clergy and Swiss Guards. The rest are residents or workers who commute from Rome daily. Vatican City was established as a sovereign state in 1929 with the Lateran Treaty, marking its unique existence as a city-state. Despite its size, it is packed with history, religious significance, and breathtaking art. The boundaries are marked by ancient walls, making you feel like you’re stepping into a separate world when you enter.
2. Absolute Power: The Pope Rules All
In Vatican City, the Pope is not just a spiritual leader but also the absolute ruler. Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church from 2013 until his death held complete executive, legislative, and judicial authority. Unlike other monarchies, there are no elections or parliaments—the Pope decides everything, from laws to appointments. The administration is managed through the Roman Curia, which functions like a government cabinet. The Vatican’s legal system is based on canon law, with new laws enacted by papal decree. Security is handled by the famed Swiss Guard, who have protected popes since the 16th century. Their colorful uniforms and strict discipline make them a tourist attraction in their own right. This blending of spiritual and temporal power is unlike anything found in any other country today.
3. Artistic Wonders at Every Turn
Art lovers flock to Vatican City for good reason—it houses some of humanity’s greatest masterpieces. The Vatican Museums showcase treasures by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio. The Sistine Chapel’s ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, continues to draw millions who crane their necks in awe. St. Peter’s Basilica, another jewel, is among the largest churches in the world and features the iconic dome designed by Michelangelo himself. In 2023, the Vatican launched an ambitious project to digitize portions of its archives, opening up centuries-old documents to researchers worldwide. This move aims to safeguard history and foster global scholarship. Every corner of the Vatican seems to tell a story, from ancient tapestries to ornate frescoes. The city-state’s art and architecture are integral to its identity and global influence.
4. The Beating Heart of Catholicism
Vatican City is the spiritual nerve center for 1.3 billion Catholics. It’s the site of papal conclaves, canonizations, and major religious ceremonies that are watched by millions around the globe. The Pope’s weekly addresses in St. Peter’s Square draw crowds from every continent, turning the city into a center of hope and unity. The Holy See, headquartered here, is the Catholic Church’s governing body and represents the Church globally. Every year, pilgrims make their way to Vatican City seeking spiritual renewal and blessings. In 2025, interfaith dialogue remains a top priority, with Vatican officials meeting representatives from other religions to promote peace and cooperation. The Vatican’s influence extends far beyond its walls, impacting charitable work and global policy on social issues. Its role as a moral compass remains vital in today’s rapidly changing world.
5. A Unique Economy Without Taxes
Unlike other countries, Vatican City has no taxes or traditional industries. Its economy is funded mainly by donations from Catholics worldwide, known as Peter’s Pence, and by revenue from tourism, museum tickets, and the sale of stamps and souvenirs. The Vatican Bank—officially the Institute for the Works of Religion—manages its financial assets and supports the Church’s charitable mission. In 2023, the Vatican reported its first budget surplus in years, reflecting stronger financial controls and transparency. Real estate investments and publishing also contribute to the budget. The city-state’s economic health is closely tied to its religious activities, with funds often directed to help the poor and support global humanitarian efforts. Ongoing reforms are in place to ensure financial integrity and prevent scandals. The Vatican’s finances are unique, blending spiritual aims with careful management.
6. Tourism: A Bucket List Destination
Millions of tourists visit Vatican City every year, making it one of the world’s most visited places relative to its size. St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums are the main attractions, offering awe-inspiring art and architecture. In 2025, Vatican authorities introduced timed ticketing and guided tours to improve the visitor experience and manage crowds. Special events, such as papal audiences and Easter celebrations, provide unforgettable experiences for those lucky enough to attend. The Vatican is committed to making its treasures accessible, including efforts to improve facilities for visitors with disabilities. Sustainable tourism practices are now in place to protect historic sites and reduce environmental impact. The city’s small size means that visitors can see its highlights in a single day, but many choose to linger and soak in the atmosphere. Every visit here feels like stepping into a living museum.
7. Education: A Center for Learning
Education and scholarship are central to Vatican City’s identity. The Pontifical Gregorian University, founded in 1551, is a world-renowned center for theological and philosophical study. The Vatican Library and Secret Archives contain priceless manuscripts and historical records dating back centuries. In 2023, new partnerships with universities around the world were announced to promote academic exchange and research. Seminaries and institutes in the city prepare future priests and Church leaders, emphasizing a deep commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth. The Vatican’s focus on education ensures that its clergy and laity are well-prepared to serve communities worldwide. Recent digitization projects have made rare documents more accessible to scholars. The drive for academic excellence keeps Vatican City at the forefront of religious and historical research.
8. Green Ambitions in a Tiny Space
Despite its small size, Vatican City is continuing its strong environmental efforts. Building on the legacy of Pope Francis and his 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’,” the Vatican remains a vocal advocate for climate action. Solar panels now cover many rooftops, providing clean energy for the city-state. Waste reduction and recycling programs have been expanded in recent years. In 2025, the Vatican renewed its pledge to become carbon neutral by 2030, making it a leader among nations in environmental stewardship. The Vatican Gardens, which cover roughly half the territory, are carefully managed to promote biodiversity and natural beauty. Vatican representatives participate in international climate conferences and urge world leaders to prioritize the planet. These efforts reflect a moral commitment to safeguarding creation for future generations.
9. Diplomacy Without Borders
Vatican City may be small, but its diplomatic reach is global. As of 2025, it maintains formal relations with more than 180 countries, acting as a bridge-builder in international affairs. The Holy See is a permanent observer at the United Nations and has a voice in crucial discussions on human rights, peace, and development. In 2023, the Vatican hosted a groundbreaking summit on interfaith dialogue, drawing leaders from different traditions to tackle shared global challenges. Vatican diplomats are often called upon to mediate in conflicts or broker peace agreements, leveraging the moral weight of the Church. The city-state sends ambassadors—called nuncios—to countries around the world. These diplomatic efforts are guided by the Church’s teachings on justice, human dignity, and compassion. Vatican City’s influence far surpasses its physical size.
10. Looking Ahead: The Vatican’s Future
Vatican City faces modern challenges as it moves forward in 2025. Social change, digital transformation, and the role of youth in the Church are pressing issues. The Vatican is embracing technology to reach people worldwide, including live-streaming Masses and digitizing archives. Efforts to increase transparency and accountability continue, especially in financial management and governance. Youth engagement has become a major priority, with new programs aimed at giving young Catholics a stronger voice in Church decisions. The Vatican’s ability to adapt while staying true to its core mission will shape its future impact. With ongoing reforms and a commitment to dialogue, the world’s smallest country remains a powerful force for good. Vatican City’s story continues to unfold, blending tradition with change.
