Cecelia ChangAt just 44 hectares, Vatican City is officially the smallest country in the world. It’s so small that many visitors are surprised by how quickly they can see most of it on foot. Nestled within Rome, this independent city-state may be tiny in size, but it holds some of the world’s most significant religious treasures and artistic masterpieces.
For first-time travellers, the scale is almost unbelievable. A stroll from one end of Vatican City’s open areas to the other can take less than ten minutes. Its boundaries are framed by elegant walls, and once you’re inside, the grand dome of St. Peter’s Basilica dominates the skyline — a striking contrast to the compact footprint of the nation itself.
Also read: 10 Things to Do and Places to Visit in Vatican City
Places to visit in Vatican City
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Most visitors begin exploring this smallest country in the world at St. Peter’s Square, an architectural marvel where pilgrims and tourists gather from all over the world. From there, stepping into St. Peter’s Basilica feels like entering a different universe: soaring ceilings, intricate mosaics, and Michelangelo’s Pietà make it one of the most breathtaking churches on Earth.
Image credit: Xavier Coiffic | Unsplash
A short walk away, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel invite travellers to immerse themselves in centuries of Renaissance art. Even though these museums occupy a country of miniature proportions, they contain one of the richest art collections anywhere in the world.
With everything located just steps apart, Vatican City offers a unique travel experience: a chance to explore a whole country in minutes, yet spend hours being moved by its history, culture, and spirituality.
Also read: 10 Small Countries Around the World You Can Explore in One Day
Despite being the world’s smallest country, Vatican City leaves a lasting impression. Sometimes, a nation doesn’t need vast land to hold immeasurable beauty.
