5 facts to Note about the Vatican City, Rome

Your Guide to the unique Vatican city

A trip to Rome is incomplete without a visit to the Vatican City, the world’s smallest country and the spiritual heart of Catholicism. Despite its size, this unique city-state packs a punch when it comes to history, art, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just curious about this fascinating place, here are five key facts to note about Vatican City that will make your visit even more memorable.

1. It’s the Smallest Country in the World

At just 44 hectares (about 110 acres), Vatican City holds the title of the world’s smallest independent state. To put that into perspective, it’s smaller than most major city parks! Despite its size, it functions as a fully independent country with its own government, postal system, and even its own currency (though it uses the euro like Italy).

• Why It’s Unique: Vatican City is home to fewer than 1,000 residents, including the Pope, clergy, and Swiss Guards. However, millions of visitors from around the globe pass through its gates each year.
• Fun Fact: Vatican City has its own football team! It’s composed mainly of employees of the Holy See and is strictly for fun, not competition.

2. It’s Home to St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vatican City and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Built over the supposed tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and the first Pope, the basilica is an awe-inspiring place of worship and artistic achievement.

• Why You Should Visit: From Michelangelo’s stunning dome to Bernini’s breathtaking altar, the basilica is a treasure trove of art and history. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
• Insider Tip: Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but you may need to pay a small fee to access the dome. Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.

3. The Vatican Museums Are a Treasure Trove of Art

If you’re an art lover, the Vatican Museums will feel like paradise. Spanning over 20,000 works, the collection includes masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and more. Of course, the pièce de résistance is the Sistine Chapel, with its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

• Why It’s a Must-See: The Sistine Chapel alone is worth the visit, but don’t overlook the other galleries, such as the Raphael Rooms and the Gallery of Maps. Each room tells a unique story of artistic and historical significance.
• Pro Tip: Book your tickets online to skip the long queues. Consider a guided tour to get deeper insights into the artwork and history.

4. The Swiss Guard Is More Than Just a Pretty Uniform

The brightly colored uniforms of the Swiss Guard often steal the spotlight, but there’s much more to these guards than meets the eye. Established in 1506, the Swiss Guard is the official security force of Vatican City and serves as the Pope’s personal bodyguard.

• Why They’re Special: The Swiss Guard is composed of highly trained soldiers from Switzerland. To qualify, recruits must be Swiss Catholic men between the ages of 19 and 30, and they must have completed basic military training.
• Fun Fact: The uniforms, with their iconic blue, red, orange, and yellow stripes, are inspired by Renaissance designs. They’re often mistaken for being created by Michelangelo, but their current look dates back to the early 20th century.

5. It Has Its Own Postal System

Vatican City’s postal system is one of the oldest and most efficient in the world. In fact, many Romans prefer sending mail via Vatican post because it’s often faster than Italy’s postal service!

• Why It’s Interesting: You can send postcards from Vatican City with unique stamps that are a collector’s dream. It’s a fun way to share a little piece of your trip with friends and family.
• How to Try It: Look for the bright yellow post boxes around the city. You’ll find them near St. Peter’s Square and other key areas.

Bonus: Tips for Visiting Vatican City

Now that you’re armed with these fascinating facts, here are a few practical tips to make your visit smoother:

1. Dress Modestly: As a place of religious significance, Vatican City has a strict dress code. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered when visiting St. Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican Museums.
2. Time Your Visit: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds. Wednesdays are particularly busy due to the Pope’s weekly audience.
3. Stay Hydrated: Exploring Vatican City can be tiring, especially in the summer. Bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of the public fountains.
4. Don’t Rush: Vatican City may be small, but there’s a lot to see. Plan to spend at least half a day here to fully appreciate its beauty and history.

Vatican City may be tiny, but it’s brimming with history, culture, and spirituality. From the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica to the world-class Vatican Museums and the ever-vigilant Swiss Guard, every corner of this city-state has a story to tell.