Vatican City may be the smallest country in the world, but its significance on the global stage is immense.
Within Rome, this tiny independent city-state covers just 110 acres—about one-eighth the size of New York’s Central Park. Despite its size, it serves as the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope.
Beyond the well-known landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City holds many fascinating secrets.
From its unique governance as a monarchy to its own currency and media outlets, this enclave is full of surprising facts that reveal its rich history and cultural importance.
Exploring these lesser-known details offers a deeper understanding of why Vatican City continues to captivate millions around the world.
1. The Smallest Country in the World
Vatican City spans just 44 hectares (110 acres), making it the smallest independent country globally by land area. Enclosed entirely by Italy, it covers one-eighth the size of New York’s Central Park.
Despite its tiny footprint, Vatican City functions as a fully sovereign state with its own government led by the Pope.
It operates its own postal service, issues passports, strikes euros, and even produces stamps and license plates, showcasing its unique autonomy.
2. Headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church
Vatican City serves as the global headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, housing the Pope’s official residence and key administrative offices. It hosts the Roman Curia, the central governing body that manages church affairs worldwide.
St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches globally, stands as a symbol of the church’s spiritual authority.
The Vatican also facilitates major religious events, including papal audiences and ceremonies, reinforcing its role as the spiritual heart of over 1.3 billion Catholics.
3. Independent Since 1929
Vatican City became an independent state in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty, signed between the Holy See and Italy.
This treaty resolved the decades-long Roman Question after Italy annexed the Papal States in 1870, leaving the Pope without territorial control.
The agreement granted Vatican City full sovereignty, financial compensation, and neutrality, ensuring the Pope’s freedom from Italian interference. Despite its ancient religious roots, this makes Vatican City one of the world’s youngest countries.
4. No Permanent Citizens
Vatican City has no permanent residents; citizenship is granted only to those working in the city, including clergy, Swiss Guards, and high-ranking officials.
When employment ends, citizenship is revoked, and individuals must leave. The population, usually around 800 people, consists primarily of Vatican employees and their families.
This unique system reflects the city’s role as a functional religious and administrative center rather than a traditional nation-state with a permanent population.
5. Home of St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica stands as Vatican City’s most iconic landmark and one of the largest churches worldwide. Construction started in 320 AD under Emperor Constantine and was fully completed in the 16th century.
Michelangelo’s design of the grand dome crowns this masterpiece, while the interior houses priceless art, including sculptures by Bernini.
As the Pope’s principal church, it hosts major liturgical events, drawing millions of pilgrims annually. St. Peter’s Basilica symbolizes the Catholic Church’s spiritual authority and its rich historical heritage.
6. The Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo
Michelangelo initially refused Pope Julius II’s commission to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling, seeing himself as a sculptor. Yet, his frescoes became a symbol of artistic genius.
Completed in the early 16th century, the chapel features, restored murals depicting biblical scenes. A special chimney emits white smoke upon a new Pope’s election and black smoke when a Pope dies.
The Sistine Chapel remains a top attraction, drawing millions annually to admire Michelangelo’s breathtaking work.
7. The Swiss Guard: The Vatican’s Army
The Swiss Guard has protected the Pope since 1506, famously wearing colorful Renaissance-era uniforms. Comprising about 135 Swiss Catholic men, they serve as Vatican City’s only military force.
These guards must be unmarried, aged 18-30, and at least 5’8″ tall. Trained in modern weapons and traditional halberds, they ensure the Pope’s safety, blending ceremonial duty with real protection.
Their dedication dates back to defending the Pope during events like the 1527 Sack of Rome, when many guards lost their lives.
8. A Unique Economy
Vatican City’s economy is truly unique, relying mainly on museum admissions, souvenir sales, and donations from Catholics worldwide. It issues its own euro coins but has no taxation system.
The state operates media outlets and prints stamps that collectors seek globally, generating additional income.
This self-sustaining model supports its religious, cultural, and administrative functions without traditional economic activities like agriculture or manufacturing.
9. The Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s largest and most important art collections, spanning over 70,000 works.
Visitors explore galleries featuring classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and modern religious art.
Highlights include the Raphael Rooms and the Gallery of Maps. The museums attract approximately 6 million visitors annually, making them a major source of revenue.
Booking guided tours or timed tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long lines and fully appreciate the extensive collections.
10. Owns a Bank: The Istituto per le Opere di Religione (IOR)
The Vatican owns the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR), managing about $6 billion in assets. Founded in 1942, this bank supports the Holy See and Catholic institutions.
Despite reforms by Pope Francis to enhance transparency since 2013, the IOR has faced scandals like money laundering and the 1980s Banco Ambrosiano collapse.
The bank even runs ATMs with Latin instructions, reflecting Vatican tradition. Its financial activities remain vital yet complicated within Vatican City’s unique economy.
Alicia Richards