Vatican (Vatican City)

Vatican City is the world's smallest independent state, located entirely within Rome, Italy. It serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and is the residence of the Pope, who is its leader. Covering about 44 hectares (110 acres), it houses significant religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. As a sovereign entity, it issues its own passports, stamps, and maintains diplomatic relations. The Vatican plays a vital role in global Catholicism, religious diplomacy, and art, culture, and history preservation.