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IS THE VATICAN A COUNTRY?

The Vatican may be known to some as only St Peter’s Basilica, and the Museum that holds the Sistine Chapel, but the walled area nestled within Rome is in fact a country of its own! The Vatican City-State has been officially a country since 1929, and the official seat of the Catholic Church. The Pope presides over its 44 Hectares and has an approximate population of 800. 

Vatican City has its own train station and post office, but it does not have a prison or a hospital. As such, no one can be a permanent citizen of the state but is instead granted citizenship during their work stay. Even its guards are not from the Vatican! The guards that protect the Vatican State, along with the Italian military police, are actually the Swiss Guard. The medieval tradition has been in effect for 500 years and is one of the oldest military units in continual operation.

Unfortunately, not all areas in the Vatican State are accessible to tourists. The Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica and Square are free to roam, but anywhere else requires special permission. Even though tourists are not allowed everywhere, there is so much to see within the Square and church that you will not miss out! In fact, the entirety of the Vatican State has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

For those religious and non-religious, this tiny country is certainly a sight to behold to any pair of eyes and is a definite must-see! 

Click on the link below to book your combo experience now to see all that the Vatican has to offer.

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