Which is the Smallest Country in the World?

When you think of countries, you likely imagine vast landscapes, bustling cities, and millions of citizens. But what if we told you that the smallest country in the world is so tiny you could walk across it in less than 30 minutes?

The smallest country in the world is Vatican City, an independent city-state covering just 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles)—smaller than New York’s Central Park! Nestled within Rome, Italy, this microstate is the spiritual and political heart of the Roman Catholic Church, ruled by none other than the Pope.

But how does a country this small even function? Is it recognized as a real nation? And what secrets lie within its walls? Let us explore the world’s tiniest country.

Why is Vatican City the Smallest Country?

Vatican City’s status as the smallest country is not just about size—it’s about legal sovereignty. Unlike other small territories (like Monaco or San Marino), Vatican City was officially established as an independent state through the Lateran Treaty of 1929, signed between Italy and the Holy See.

Key Facts About Vatican City’s Size:

• Area: 0.49 km² (0.19 mi²)
• Population: ~800 people (mostly clergy, Swiss Guards, and diplomats)
• Governance: The world’s only theocratic absolute monarchy, with the Pope as its head of state.

For comparison:

• Monaco (2nd smallest country): 2.1 km²
• Nauru (3rd smallest): 21 km²

Is Vatican City Really a Country?

Many people wonder: How can something so small be a real country? The answer lies in international law.

Proof Vatican City is a Sovereign Nation:

• UN Recognition: Though not a full UN member, it holds non-member observer state status.
• Its Own Government: The Holy See operates independently from Italy.
• Currency & Postal System: Issues euros with unique Vatican designs and runs its own postal service.
• Passports & Diplomacy: Grants passports to citizens (mostly clergy) and maintains embassies worldwide.

Vatican City has no birthright citizenship—you can only become a citizen if you work for the Holy See!

What’s Inside Vatican City

While most know Vatican City for St. Peter’s Basilica, there is much more to explore:

Must-See Landmarks:

• St. Peter’s Basilica – The largest church in the world, housing Michelangelo’s Pietà.
• Vatican Museums – Home to the Sistine Chapel, with its iconic ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
• Apostolic Palace – The Pope’s official residence.
• Vatican Gardens – A lush, private retreat covering half the country.

How Does It Function?

• No Taxes: Funds come from donations, museum tickets, and souvenir sales.
• No Military: Protected by the Swiss Guard, the world’s smallest (and most colorful) army.
• No Hospitals or Schools: Residents rely on Italy for healthcare and education.

Can You Visit Vatican City?

Yes! Vatican City is one of the most visited places in the world, attracting over 5 million tourists annually.

Visiting Tips:

• Entry Requirements: No visa needed for day trips (but Italy’s Schengen rules apply).
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Must-Do: Book skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums—wait times can exceed 3 hours!
• Dress Code: Modest clothing (no shorts or sleeveless tops in sacred sites).

How Does Vatican City Compare to Other Tiny Countries?

While Vatican City is the smallest, other microstates have their own quirks:

Did You Know? Vatican City is smaller than all of them combined!

Interesting Facts About Vatican City

• ATM in Latin: The world’s only ATM with instructions in Latin.
• Zero Prisoners: It has a jail but rarely uses it.
• No Traffic Lights: With only a few hundred residents, they are not needed!
• Helipad & Train Station: Despite its size, it has both (used mostly for official purposes).

Why Does Vatican City Exist?

Before 1929, the Pope ruled the Papal States, a large territory in Italy. After Italy’s unification, the Vatican lost its land—until Mussolini signed the Lateran Treaty, granting it independence as a sovereign state.

Today: It ensures the Pope’s political and religious independence.