Vatican City

Vatican City (Città del Vaticano) is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and an independent, landlocked sovereign state. Known as the smallest country in the world, it is surrounded by Rome, Italy, and lies near the banks of the River Tiber. The Vatican Palace serves as the residence of the Pope, while the Holy See functions as the governing authority of the Roman Catholic Church. With its deep religious, cultural, and historical significance, Vatican City has long been an important center for Christians, attracting millions of pilgrims each year.

• The Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani), located at latitude 41.9064723 and longitude 12.453524, house an extraordinary collection of classical antiquities, Roman sculptures, and Renaissance masterpieces. Founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II, the museums now hold around 70,000 works and rank among the most visited art museums in the world. During a typical Vatican Museums tour, visitors encounter the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment, as well as Raphael’s Rooms, both considered iconic masterpieces of Western and European art. The museums also feature a significant collection of modern religious art, including works by Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Paul Gauguin, and Marc Chagall.
• Saint Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), located at latitude 41.9021949 and longitude 12.4538972, is a monumental Renaissance church designed over centuries by distinguished architects such as Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernardo Rossellino, Domenico Fontana, and Giovanni Giocondo. Situated at the heart of Vatican City, it remains one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Christians worldwide.
• The Vatican Apostolic Library (Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana), located within Vatican City (approx. latitude 41.9047782 and longitude 12.4547754), is the official library of the Holy See. Established in the 15th century, it is one of the oldest libraries in the world and preserves rare books, manuscripts, historical documents, and archival treasures.
• The Gardens of Vatican City (Giardini Vaticani) occupy the western part of the city, spanning 23 hectares (57 acres). These tranquil gardens feature lush green spaces, sculptures, fountains, and shaded pathways, offering a peaceful retreat within the world’s smallest country.