The smallest independent country in the world – the Vatican – is located in Rome and is the Pope’s residence – the head of the Roman-Catholic church.



The Vatican is located on the Monte Vaticano hill and is separated from Rome with medieval walls. It was established in 1929 as per the Lateran Treaty, signed with Italy.



Everything used in the city is imported.

The Vatican represents a complex of church, castle and fortress facilities, inner courts and gardens. In the castle complex are located the residence and the offices of the Pope, as well as a lot of museums. A great deal of the murals and the sculptures were made by great Renaissance masters – Michelangelo, Raffaello, Botticelli, etc. The St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, built in 16th c. according to the design of the renowned Renaissance architect Donato Bramante, is one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Its cross rises at a height of 138 m, and the enormous dome, with diameter at the drum of 68 m, was designed and started by the great Michelangelo. The eponymous square in front of the church has a typical shape and is surrounded by 142 columns and 192 statues.