HOLY SEE (STATE OF THE VATICAN CITY) PAX GAEA COUNTRY REPORT

Holy See, also known as the State of the Vatican City, is located in the south of the European Continent, with a population
of 829, making it the 237th largest national population. Its capital and largest city is Vatican City with a total population of
826. The country encompasses 0.44 square kilometers making it the 232nd largest country in total area. It is completely
enveloped within the city of Rome, Italy.

Pope Benedict XVI is recognized as the Chief of State and achieves that status through a vote of the College of Cardinals
and holds that position for life. Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone is recognized as the Head of Government and
achieves that status through appointment by the pope and holds that position for life or until the death of the pope. Its form
of government is Ecclesiastical and they celebrate the creation of their constitution on 22 February 2001.

The languages commonly or officially spoken are Italian, Latin, French and various other languages. It counts among its
major religions Roman Catholic. As sources of mass communication it has 4 AM, 3 FM, 2 Short Wave and 1 Television
stations.

Major geographical features are unnamed location, its highest point at 75 meters and another unnamed location, its lowest
point at 19 meters. As it is completely surrounded by a wall in the center of Rome, it has no waterways.

Major incomes sources providing for the bulk of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) are through a combination of a
unique, noncommercial economy supported financially by an annual contribution (known as Peter's Pence) from Roman
Catholic dioceses throughout the world as well as commercial industry comprised of printing, production of coins, medals,
postage stamps; a small amount of mosaics and staff uniforms, worldwide banking and financial activities. Its official
currency is Euro.

Here’s something you may not know about Holy See. The Holy See is the world’s smallest country and the only nation
dedicated exclusively to the promotion of a religion.

The Creation of Man in
the Sistine Chapel

Ancient treasures

Door of the Vatican
Museum

Helena, mother of
Constantine statue

Lights burning in front
of the alter over the
burial place of Saint
Paul

Painting of popes in
the Vatican Museum

Vatican City is one of the world's smallest countries but it is very, very pretty and really made me go
"wow!" When we visit one of the first places I would really like to see would be the Museum because,
from all the pages I visited, I saw the most beautiful paintings there and I have heard that there is a
whole world of pictures. Now, before I fall to my knees and beg, could you please visit this little world in
Rome for summer?

5 Suitcases = Let's Go Now!
4 Suitcases = Put This One On the List
3 Suitcases = May Be Worth Checking Out
2 Suitcases = So Many Other Places To See
1 Suitcase = Well, I'll Go If I Have To