The Vatican is located in the city of Rome, Italy. As an independent sovereign state, the Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, both in terms of area and population. It serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and is the residence of the Pope. The Vatican is home to important religious and cultural landmarks, including St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Each year, millions of visitors come to the Vatican to explore its historical treasures and experience its significance as a center of faith.