Vatican

The Vatican, officially known as Vatican City State, is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. It serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and is the residence of the Pope. Established as a sovereign entity in 1929, the Vatican is the smallest country in the world by both area and population. It is home to significant cultural treasures, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's frescoes. The Vatican plays a crucial role in global diplomacy and is a symbol of Catholic faith and tradition.