The Holy See

The Holy See is the central governing body of the Roman Catholic Church, representing the Vatican's authority and sovereignty. It functions as the spiritual and administrative leadership, overseeing church doctrine, diplomatic relations, and worldwide Catholic activities. Often mistaken for the Vatican City—an independent city-state—it actually refers to the Church's jurisdiction and governance. The Holy See has diplomatic relations with many countries and maintains ambassadors called nuncios. It embodies the Pope's spiritual leadership and the Catholic Church’s global organizational structure, serving as both a religious authority and a sovereign entity in international law.