Vatican City is the country with a population of 825 people.
Vatican City: The World's Smallest Sovereign State
Vatican City, officially the Vatican City State, holds the distinction of being the smallest independent state in the world, both in terms of area and population. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it is an ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state, ruled by the Pope, who is also the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church.
Its unique status and compact size contribute to its remarkably small population. With only approximately 825 inhabitants, its population is notably smaller than that of even a small area in bustling cities like Jakarta, Indonesia.
Unique Population Characteristics
The majority of Vatican City's residents are members of the clergy, including cardinals, diplomats, and other officials serving the Holy See. The country's security is primarily maintained by the Pontifical Swiss Guard, also a distinct component of its population.
Key facts about Vatican City's population:
- Primarily Ecclesiastical: The population largely consists of individuals involved in the administration and service of the Roman Catholic Church.
- Diverse Nationalities: While small, its residents come from various countries, reflecting the global reach of the Catholic Church.
- Unique Citizenship: Vatican citizenship is not based on birth but rather on appointment to work in the Holy See, and it is typically temporary.
Key Facts About Vatican City
To provide a clearer picture of this microstate, here's a summary of its distinguishing features:
Attribute | Detail |
---|---|
Country | Vatican City (Vatican City State) |
Population | 825 people (approx.) |
Area | 0.44 square kilometers (0.17 square miles) |
Location | Enclave within Rome, Italy |
Head of State | The Pope |
Government | Ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state |
This tiny nation plays a significant global role as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, impacting the lives of over a billion Catholics worldwide, despite its minuscule population.