What Is the Smallest Country in the World?
The smallest country in the world is Vatican City.
Located entirely within the city of Rome, Italy, Vatican City covers just 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles). Despite its size, it’s a sovereign country with its own laws, currency, passports, and government.
Quick Facts: Vatican City
- Official Name: Vatican City State
- Area: 0.49 km² (0.19 sq mi)
- Population: Around 800 people
- Capital: Vatican City
- Language: Italian, Latin
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Founded: 1929 (Lateran Treaty)
- Leader: The Pope (also the head of state)
Why Is Vatican City a Country?
Even though it’s tiny, Vatican City is considered a country because it has:
- Defined territory
- Permanent population
- A functioning government
- Ability to enter relations with other states
It’s also the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope.
Smallest Countries in the World – Size Comparison Table
| Country | Size (km²) | Population (est.) | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vatican City | 0.49 | ~800 | Vatican City |
| Monaco | 2.02 | ~39,000 | Monaco |
| Nauru | 21 | ~10,800 | Yaren District* |
| Tuvalu | 26 | ~11,300 | Funafuti |
| San Marino | 61 | ~33,600 | San Marino |
| Liechtenstein | 160 | ~39,500 | Vaduz |
| Marshall Islands | 181 | ~42,000 | Majuro |
Similar Microstates You Might Not Know
- Monaco: Known for luxury, casinos, and Formula 1
- Nauru: A Pacific island once rich in phosphate
- San Marino: One of the oldest republics in the world
- Tuvalu: A low-lying island nation threatened by rising sea levels
- Liechtenstein: A landlocked European microstate between Switzerland and Austria
Final Answer (No Confusion)
If you’re wondering “what is the smallest country in the world?” — it’s Vatican City, both by land area and population.
No other nation is smaller in size, and only a few have fewer residents.
FAQs
Q1: Is Vatican City recognized as a real country?
Yes, it’s a fully independent state, recognized internationally since 1929.
Q2: Can you visit Vatican City?
Absolutely. Millions visit every year to see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
Q3: Who governs Vatican City?
The Pope serves as the head of state. It also has its own administrative departments.
Q4: Is Vatican City part of Italy?
No, it’s a landlocked independent country within the city of Rome.
Q5: What’s the second smallest country in the world?
That would be Monaco, with just over 2 km² of land.