Vatican Treasures

The Vatican, officially known as Vatican City State, is the world’s smallest independent country both in area and population. Enclaved within the city of Rome, it serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. It has been the residence of the Pope, the leader of the Catholic Church, since 1377. Despite its size—just about 44 hectares (110 acres)—the Vatican holds immense global religious and cultural influence, drawing millions of pilgrims and tourists each year.
Home to some of the world’s most significant artistic and architectural treasures, the Vatican boasts landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes, and the Vatican Museums, which house centuries of invaluable art and artifacts.