An enclave within Rome, Italy, Vatican City is the world’s smallest sovereign state with a population of about 500 and greater urban area of 121 acres. Officially recognized as independent in 1929, this ecclesiastical country is ruled by the pope, who is both the bishop of Rome and head of the Roman Catholic religion. Located within its walls are the world’s largest Christian church, St. Peter’s, and the Vatican Museums, which include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael rooms, as well as many other ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern art collections. Buona visita!