1. Secret Archives: Vatican City holds some of the oldest and most secretive archives in the world. The archives contain documents dating back to the 8th century and are strictly controlled by the Vatican.
2. The Swiss Guards: The Vatican’s Swiss Guards are the world’s smallest army. Established in 1506, they are known for their colorful uniforms and highly disciplined service.
3. Smallest Country in the World: Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population. It covers only 44 hectares (110 acres) and has a population of around 800 people.
4. Sistine Chapel: The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo, is one of the most famous artworks in the world. It took Michelangelo four years to complete and contains over 300 figures.
5. No Births or Deaths: Due to its small population and lack of residential facilities, Vatican City has no maternity ward or cemetery. Babies born to Vatican citizens are considered citizens of their parents’ home countries.
6. St. Peter’s Basilica Obelisk: The obelisk in St. Peter’s Square was originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt, around 13 BC. It was transported to Rome in 37 AD by Emperor Caligula, and finally moved to its current location in 1586 by Pope Sixtus V.
7. Michelangelo’s Pieta: The Pieta, located in St. Peter’s Basilica, was sculpted by Michelangelo when he was only 24 years old. It is the only artwork he ever signed.
8. The Vatican Museums: The Vatican Museums house one of the largest art collections in the world, with over 70,000 works. It would take you nearly four years to see every piece if you spent just one minute looking at each.
9. Vatican Radio: Vatican Radio, officially known as Radio Vatican, was the first radio station to broadcast internationally in multiple languages. It was established in 1931 and now broadcasts in 47 languages.
10. Vatican City’s Postal System: Vatican City has its own postal system, and its stamps are popular with collectors worldwide. They often feature images of the Pope, Vatican landmarks, and religious themes.
11. Vatican Pharmacy: Vatican City has its own pharmacy, established in 1874, which provides medications and pharmaceutical services to residents and employees of the Vatican.
12. Vatican Gardens: Covering more than half of Vatican City’s territory, the Vatican Gardens are private gardens that date back to medieval times. They contain fountains, sculptures, and a variety of plants and trees.
13. Vatican Bank: Officially known as the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR), the Vatican Bank is one of the most secretive financial institutions in the world. It manages assets for religious orders, Vatican employees, and clergy.
14. Vatican City’s Railway: Vatican City has its own railway station, which is used to transport goods and occasionally dignitaries. It has one short line that connects to the Italian railway network.
15. Latin as an Official Language: Latin is still used as an official language in Vatican City. It’s used in the liturgy, as well as in the official documents of the Catholic Church.
16. The Papal Audience: The Pope delivers a weekly address known as the Papal Audience, usually on Wednesdays. It’s held in St. Peter’s Square or the Vatican audience hall, and thousands of people attend from around the world.
17. Castel Gandolfo: The Pope’s summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, is located just outside Rome. It has beautiful gardens and a view of Lake Albano. Popes have used it as a summer retreat since the 17th century.
18. Swiss Guard Uniforms: The distinctive uniforms of the Swiss Guard are designed by Michelangelo. They consist of blue, red, orange, and yellow stripes, with a Renaissance-style metal helmet.
19. Vatican Observatory: The Vatican has its own astronomical observatory, established in 1891. It conducts scientific research and studies celestial phenomena.
20. Vatican City’s Passport: Vatican City issues its own passports, but only to its citizens and diplomatic personnel. These passports are among the rarest and most difficult to obtain in the world.
21. Vatican Museums’ Spiral Staircase: The Vatican Museums’ spiral staircase, designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932, is a masterpiece of architecture. It’s a double helix staircase, meaning two staircases ascend in a helical formation without ever meeting.