Papal States

The Papal States were a series of territory in central Italy that were governed directly by the Pope from the 8th century until the 19th century. These territories included cities like Rome and were significant for their political and religious influence. The Papal States served as a key part of Catholic Church governance and were integral to the Pope's authority. The territories were annexed by Italy in 1870, leading to the establishment of Vatican City as an independent sovereign entity, which still serves as the Pope's residence and the administrative center of the Catholic Church.