Country Profile: Holy See (Vatican City)

The Holy See, located in Southern Europe as an enclave of Rome, is the smallest independent state in the world. With a population of just 1,000 residents, it serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, which claims approximately 1.3 billion followers globally. The economy is primarily tourism-based, bolstered by revenues from religious activities and the production of stamps and coins. Governed as an ecclesiastical elective monarchy, the Pope holds supreme authority, supported by a unique legal system rooted in canon law.

Geography

Vatican City is landlocked and situated entirely within the city of Rome, Italy, covering an area of 0.44 square kilometers. Its climate is temperate, featuring mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The city is primarily urban, with its highest point at Vatican Hill reaching 78 meters and the lowest point at Saint Peter's Square at 19 meters.

0.44 sq km: Total land area, making it the world's smallest state.
3.4 km: Total land boundaries, all adjacent to Italy.
100%: Urban population as of 2023.

People and Society

The population of Vatican City is approximately 1,000, with all residents living in an urban environment. The predominant language is Italian, alongside Latin and various other languages. The society is largely composed of Italian, Swiss, and Argentinian nationalities, with Roman Catholicism being the sole religion.

100%: Urbanization rate, reflecting its status as a city-state.
0%: Population growth rate as of 2014.
1,000: Estimated population in 2024.

Economy

Vatican City's economy is unique, relying heavily on tourism and religious events, with residents enjoying tax exemptions. The state has a "zero deficit" budget policy to manage its financial resources, generating income through the minting of coins and the sale of commemorative stamps.

Euro: Currency in use, alongside minted coins since 2002.
Limited: Size of the economy with a focus on tourism and religious activities.

Government

The Holy See operates as an ecclesiastical elective monarchy, with the Pope as the head of state. The governance structure includes the Pontifical Commission, which serves as the legislative body. The legal system is based on canon law, and citizenship is conferred primarily through acts related to service in the Vatican.

Pope LEO XIV: Current chief of state since May 8, 2025.
7 members: In the legislature, with a unicameral structure.
11 February 1929: Date of independence established through treaties with Italy.

Military and Security

Vatican City's security is managed by the Pontifical Swiss Guard, which has been protecting the Pope since 1506, and the Gendarmerie Corps, responsible for policing and security within the city-state. There is no conscription, and military service is voluntary for Swiss citizens.

19-30 years: Age range for voluntary service in the Swiss Guard.
1: Military force comprised primarily of the Swiss Guard.

Energy

Vatican City has achieved full electricity access, ensuring that all residents benefit from consistent energy availability.

100%: Electrification of the total population as of 2021.

Communications

The Vatican possesses its own broadcasting services, including Vatican Radio and the Vatican Television Center, which cover events and news pertaining to the Roman Catholic Church. The Internet is also accessible, with a majority of the population using it.

87%: Internet usage rate among the population as of 2023.
.va: Internet country code.

Transportation

Vatican City has one heliport, which accommodates aerial transport needs within its confines.

1: Number of heliports as of 2025.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	1,000	Estimated as of 2024
Area	0.44 sq km	The smallest independent state
Governance Type	Ecclesiastical elective monarchy
Military Force	Swiss Guard	Established in 1506
Electricity Access	100%	As of 2021
Internet Users	87%	As of 2023
Legislative Structure	7 members	Unicameral body
Independence Date	11 February 1929	Treaty with Italy established sovereignty