Which Country’s Capital City Lies Entirely Inside Another City?

Vatican City: A Country Within Rome

Vatican City is an independent city-state entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy. Unlike conventional countries, where the capital is usually a distinct city or administrative area within national territory, Vatican City itself functions as both a country and a city.

Its capital is also called Vatican City, meaning the country's capital does not exist separately from the country itself. Every part of Vatican City's territory is enclosed by the Italian capital.

The tiny state covers approximately 0.44 square kilometres, or about 44 hectares. Despite its small footprint, it is a fully sovereign state with its own institutions and administrative systems.

How Did Vatican City Become A Country?

Vatican City's modern status dates back to 1929, when the Lateran Treaty was signed between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy.

The treaty formally established Vatican City as an independent sovereign territory. It was created to guarantee the independence of the Holy See and ensure that the Pope could exercise his religious and administrative responsibilities without being governed by another country.

Before the establishment of Vatican City as a sovereign state, the relationship between the Papacy and Italy had been marked by decades of political tensions.

Why Is Vatican City Important?

Although Vatican City is extremely small, its importance extends far beyond its geographical size. It serves as the spiritual and administrative centre of the Roman Catholic Church and is the official residence of the Pope.

The Pope is not only the leader of the Catholic Church but also the sovereign of Vatican City. This gives the city-state a unique position in global affairs, combining religious influence with political sovereignty.

Vatican City Is The World's Smallest Country

Vatican City holds the distinction of being the smallest country in the world by both area and population.

Its territory is just a fraction of the size of most modern countries. Yet, it has many of the features associated with a sovereign nation, including its own government, laws, postal services, currency and other institutions.

Its compact size makes Vatican City a remarkable example of how a country can maintain political independence despite having almost no territorial space.

Famous Landmarks Inside Vatican City

Despite occupying less than half a square kilometre, Vatican City is home to some of the world's most recognisable religious and cultural landmarks.


St Peter's Basilica

St Peter's Basilica is one of the most famous churches in the world and a major pilgrimage destination for Catholics. Its enormous dome and Renaissance architecture dominate the Vatican skyline.


St Peter's Square

Located in front of the basilica, St Peter's Square is known for its grand colonnades and its role in major papal events. Large crowds gather here to attend papal ceremonies and hear addresses from the Pope.


Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is another iconic Vatican landmark. It is particularly famous for Michelangelo's celebrated ceiling frescoes and its connection with the election of new popes.

A Unique Country Inside A City

Vatican City's location creates a geographical situation unlike almost anywhere else in the world. An entire sovereign country exists within the boundaries of another country's capital city.

So, if you were asked which country has a capital city located inside another city, Vatican City provides the answer. It is a sovereign country, a city and a capital at the same time, all surrounded by Rome.

Its tiny territory may make it one of the world's smallest countries, but its historical, religious and cultural significance makes Vatican City one of the most influential places on Earth.