We all know India is the world’s 7th largest country and Russia is the largest country. What is the world’s smallest country?
It turns out, there are plenty of small countries out there. There’s Nauru, the world’s smallest island country and the third-smallest country in the world. It covers an area of about 33 square Km. And Monaco is even smaller–just over 1.5 square Km! It is not only the world’s most densely populated state but also home to the world’s largest per capita population of millionaires and billionaires. France borders the country on three sides. Despite Monaco’s independence and separate foreign policy, its defense is the responsibility of France.
But neither of those countries is the world’s smallest. No, that title goes to an even tinier nation. With an area of just under a third of a square mile, Vatican City is the world’s smallest country. It’s about one-eighth the size of Central Park in New York City!
Vatican City is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. The country is also surrounded on all sides by the city of Rome, Italy. As of 2019, the population of Vatican City is 799 people. It may not be home to many people, but it is the home of one of the most famous people in the world. Who are we talking about? The Pope, of course!
The Pope has lived in Vatican City since the 14th Century. And each newly elected Pope isn’t just the new leader of the Catholic Church. He’s also the head of the government of Vatican City. The world’s smallest army—the Swiss Guard—even works to protect the Pope within the city.
Would you like to visit the world’s smallest country one day? You’re not alone! Millions travel to Vatican City each year to see some of the world’s greatest treasures.
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