The Vatican City is a state completely surrounded by the country of Rome. Declared a state in 1929, at a mere 44 Hectares, 110 acres, it is the smallest state in the world. It is self-governed by the Catholic Church governed by the elected Pope of the Roman Catholic Church also known as the Holy See. It has walls surrounding its limits to set it apart from the surrounding country and is one of the most popular religious tourist Meccas in the world.

 

 

History

Vatican is not a Christian term originally; it comes from the Latin word Mons Vaticanus that means Vatican Mount. The area was just another area of Rome until 1929 when the Lateran Treaty gave the city its separate statehood. Prior to that it shifted power sometimes violently but has had Christian ties as early as the 4th century. The status of power continues to be an evolving effort between the surrounding Roman government and the Papal city of the Vatican and a revised treaty was signed in 1984 continuing the Vatican City's Catholic history.

 

Art & Museums

In spite of its small size the Vatican City holds some of the world's most treasured art history in such buildings as the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. The art of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, and Bernini can be viewed on public tours of the cathedrals and the Vatican museum. While the number of museums and art galleries do not match larger cities, there are beautiful gardens inside the Vatican City that are both relaxing and inspiring. The Vatican City itself is often considered an art treasure all its own.

 

Nightlife

Being a religious and historical attraction the Vatican City itself is not set up to house entertainment of the popular variety but there is plenty to do just outside its gates in the beautiful country of Rome. Modern music and classical opera all surround the Vatican City in Rome and many discos, bars, and nightclubs are readily avialble.

 

How to get there

Most of the Vatican City can easily be seen on foot but there is also a very well developed transportation system inside the walls. Travel to and from Rome is easily accomplished with public transportation and many hotels in the area offer shuttle transport to the city daily. There are no airports inside of the Vatican City but travelers from outside the country can land at Rome's Leonardo DaVinci Airport or Ciampino Airport.