Vatican City with Saint Peter's Basilica, Rome, Italy

A country within a city. Vatican City, Rome, Italy

In the middle of Rome, Italy, lies an entire country of its own: Vatican City. At less than 0.5 square kilometres across, it's the smallest independent nation in the world, yet its reach spans centuries and continents. Home to the pope and the spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church, this walled enclave is a blend of art, history and devotion. At its core stands St. Peter's Basilica. Seen in the distance in today's image, this Renaissance masterpiece is built over what is believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter, the first Bishop of Rome. With its soaring dome dominating the skyline, the basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. Just beyond the basilica lies St. Peter's Square, where thousands gather for papal blessings.

The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, which houses Michelangelo's famed ceiling, are other must-sees. Despite its size, Vatican City has its own postal service, telephone system and banking system. It also has its own euros, even though the country is not part of the European Union.

Surrounding Vatican City, Rome itself is a living museum, filled with historic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. Together, they unite faith, history and modernity in a unique and unforgettable experience.