Country Profile: Holy See (Vatican City)

The Holy See, situated in Southern Europe and entirely encircled by Rome, is the world's smallest independent state both in area and population, with around 1,000 residents as of 2024. Governed as an ecclesiastical elective monarchy, it is unique in its blend of religious authority and administrative functions, with the Pope serving as both spiritual leader and head of state. The economy is primarily tourism-based, with additional revenue derived from religious activities, minting coins, and selling publications, while the population benefits from a high standard of living without direct taxes.

Geography

Vatican City is a landlocked enclave in Rome, Italy, covering approximately 0.44 square kilometers, which is about 0.7 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Its terrain is predominantly urban, characterized by low hills, with the highest point being Vatican Hill at an elevation of 78 meters. The climate is temperate, featuring mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.

0 km coastline, as it is landlocked.
3.4 km of land boundaries with Italy.

People and Society

The population of Vatican City is around 1,000 individuals, characterized by a mix of Italians, Swiss, Argentinians, and others from various nationalities. The official languages include Italian, Latin, and French, and the predominant religion is Roman Catholicism. Vatican City is fully urbanized, with 100% of its population living in the urban area.

100% of the population has access to improved drinking water.
0% annual urbanization rate expected between 2020-2025.

Economy

Vatican City's limited economy is heavily reliant on tourism and the production of religious items. The state uses the euro, although it mints its own commemorative coins. The Holy See operates under a "zero deficit" policy to manage its finances and does not impose direct taxes on residents.

The economy uses euros (EUR) with recent exchange rates around 0.924 per US dollar as of 2024.
It produces commemorative stamps, coins, and publications to support its economic activities.

Government

The Holy See operates as an ecclesiastical elective monarchy, with the Pope serving as the chief of state. Its legal system is based on canon law, and the governance structure includes a unicameral legislature known as the Pontifical Commission for the State of Vatican City. The latest constitutional document was issued by Pope Francis in May 2023.

7 members serve in the Pontifical Commission for the State of Vatican City.
0% representation of women in the legislative chamber.

Military and Security

The Pontifical Swiss Guard serves as the de facto military force of Vatican City, tasked with the security of the Pope and Vatican premises. The Gendarmerie Corps handles police functions and general security. Military service is voluntary and specifically for Swiss nationals aged 19 to 30.

1506 marks the year the Swiss Guard began protecting the Pope.
Service contracts for Swiss Guard members can last from 2 to 25 years.

Energy

Vatican City boasts a 100% electrification rate for its population as of 2021, indicating a well-established energy infrastructure within its urban environment.

Environment

Air pollution is a concern due to its proximity to Rome, although the Holy See is a party to various international environmental agreements, such as the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Its land use is entirely urban, with no agricultural or forested areas.

Participates in 2 World Heritage Sites, both cultural in significance.
0 cubic meters of total renewable water resources as of 2017.

Transportation

Vatican City has 1 heliport as of 2025, and its compact area means that most of its transportation needs can be met through walking or using small vehicles within the enclave.

Communications

The Holy See maintains a robust communication apparatus, including the Vatican Television Center and Vatican Radio, which broadcast the Pope’s audiences and events. Internet access is widely available, with approximately 87% of the population being internet users as of 2023.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	1,000	(2024 estimate)
Area	0.44 sq km	World's smallest state
GDP	Not available	Tourism and religious services based
Energy Consumption	100% electrification	Total population (2021)
Urban Population	100%	Entire population lives in urban areas
Birth Rate	Not available
Unemployment Rate	Not applicable	No direct taxes or formal employment