The Vatican, officially known as Vatican City State, is an independent sovereign city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and serves as the residence of the Pope. Vatican City is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population. It was established as a separate entity from Italy in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty. The Vatican is home to important religious and cultural sites, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, which house significant art and historical treasures. Its governance is a unique form of ecclesiastical state, overseen by the Pope, who holds complete legislative, executive, and judicial authority. The term “Vatican” is often used to refer to the entire complex of religious, administrative, and diplomatic functions, as well as the broader institution of the Roman Catholic Church itself.
Pope Francis is recovering from pneumonia, with stable condition as assured by his doctors, though concerns of potential complications remain. The Pope, at 88, continues to demonstrate resilience and humor…