Vatican City
Vatican City, officially known as the Vatican City State, is a sovereign city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. Here are some key details about this unique entity:
Geography and Demographics
- Area: Vatican City covers an area of approximately 44 hectares (110 acres), making it the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population.
- Population: As of recent estimates, Vatican City has a population of around 800 to 900 residents, though this number can fluctuate with the presence of visiting dignitaries, staff, and pilgrims.
History
The origins of Vatican City can be traced back to the early Christian Church:
Political Status
- Government: Vatican City is governed as an absolute elective monarchy, where the Pope holds supreme executive, legislative, and judicial power.
- Diplomacy: The Vatican maintains diplomatic relations with numerous countries and international organizations, even though it is not a member of the United Nations. It does, however, have observer status in the UN.
Economy
Culture and Heritage
- Art and Architecture: Vatican City is renowned for its art collections and historical buildings, including the Sistine Chapel with its frescoes by Michelangelo, and the Vatican Museums.
- Language: The official language is Italian, but Latin is used for official documents and ceremonies.
External Links
Related Topics