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Vatican City

Vatican City is a landlocked sovereign city-state in Rome, Italy, and the smallest independent state in the world by area and population.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Vatican City is a landlocked sovereign city-state in Rome, Italy, and the smallest independent state in the world by area and population. It serves as the administrative and spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church, with the pope as head of state. Its independence was established by the Lateran Treaty in 1929.

History

Vatican City became an independent state in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy. Its modern sovereignty is rooted in the settlement of the Roman Question and its long role as the seat of the papacy.

Government

Vatican City is governed as an absolute elective monarchy, with the pope holding supreme executive, legislative, and judicial powers. The state’s institutions are distinct from those of the Holy See, which is the central governing body of the Catholic Church.

Geography and borders

The state covers 44 hectares in central Rome and is enclosed by medieval and Renaissance walls, with St. Peter’s Square opening toward the city. It is a landlocked enclave with a single bordering country, Italy.

Landmarks and culture

Vatican City contains some of the world’s most visited religious and artistic landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. UNESCO recognizes Vatican City as a World Heritage Site for its exceptional cultural and spiritual significance.

Key facts

  • It is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population.
  • It is an enclave within the city of Rome and is surrounded by Italy.
  • The pope exercises executive, legislative, and judicial authority within Vatican City.
  • The Lateran Treaty of 1929 recognized its sovereignty.
  • It is the administrative centre of the Roman Catholic Church.
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Canadian context

Canadian readers may encounter Vatican City through coverage of the Roman Catholic Church, papal visits, and UNESCO World Heritage discussions involving one of the world’s most important religious and diplomatic centres.

Frequently asked questions

What is Vatican City?
Vatican City is a sovereign city-state in Rome, Italy, and the smallest independent state in the world.
Who governs Vatican City?
The pope is head of state and holds supreme authority over Vatican City’s government.
When did Vatican City become independent?
Vatican City became independent in 1929 under the Lateran Treaty.
Is Vatican City the same as the Holy See?
No. Vatican City is the territorial state, while the Holy See is the central governing authority of the Roman Catholic Church.
What is Vatican City known for?
It is known as the centre of the Roman Catholic Church and for landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Vatican-City
    Supports: Describes Vatican City as a landlocked ecclesiastical state, the smallest independent nation-state, and the seat of the Roman Catholic Church.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Vatican-City
    Supports: Provides area, population estimate, government structure, Lateran Treaty recognition, and major landmarks.
  3. UNESCO World Heritage Centre — https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/286/
    Supports: States that Vatican City was defined by the Lateran Treaty of 1929, covers 44 hectares, and is a World Heritage Site.
  4. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-17994868
    Supports: Identifies Vatican City as the smallest independent state and residence of the spiritual leadership of the Roman Catholic Church.